RLS is a sensorimotor
disorder that may cause considerable discomfort to patients in the
waking hours and may have a profound impact on sleep. In severe
cases the associated sleep deficit may have a detrimental effect
on daytime work, social activities and general well being. In the
worst cases sleep deprivation and the inability to tolerate certain
activities (such as sitting for long periods at a desk) can lead
to job loss, and relationship problems. Most commonly the legs alone
are affected but the upper limbs may also be involved.
All that causes legs to twitch or shake is not RLS. For instance leg
cramps, pain in legs due to arthritis or positional discomfort may
mimic RLS. To make a robust diagnosis of RLS the four essential criterias
should be met. |
