Restless Leg Syndrome - Podcast
Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is an urge to move the legs accompanied by symptoms of dysesthesias, such as creeping, crawling, tingling, cramping, or aching of the extremities, primarily in the lower extremities.
The symptoms are usually worse at rest and in the evening, and are temporarily improved with movement (1). Generally lower extremities are affected more with symptoms less common in upper extremities and torso. Treatment includes nonpharmacologic interventions, dopamine agonists, opioids, benzodiazepines, or neuroleptic agents (2).
Introducing Fiona...
Fiona is 40, she is tired all the time because she can't sleep. She has distressing pins and needles in her legs. At times it's painful with an irresistible urge to move her legs. She had a baby 2 years ago and the symptoms started in her last pregnancy.
Listen to the podcast to find out about the assessment, diagnosis and management of Fiona's symptoms:
References
Jo is a GP and Medical Educator based in Sydney.
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