COMMON SLEEP DISORDERS

restless leg syndrome

Have you experienced an overpowering urge to move your legs at night due to an uncomfortable feeling in them — a sensation that’s only temporarily relieved by movement? If this is a frequent occurrence, you could have restless leg syndrome.

Restless leg syndrome involves unpleasant sensations in the limbs (primarily the legs but occasionally the arms and head) at night. Relief is temporary and can only be found by moving the impacted limbs. 

Symptoms of restless leg syndrome manifest in feelings of throbbing, aching, pulling and itching in the limbs. This generally occurs at night after sitting or lying down for an extended period of time. Because this sleep disorder impacts nightly sleep, the resulting exhaustion can lead to disruptions in daily routines caused by poor concentration and mood swings, which impact job or school performance and personal relationships.

Restless leg syndrome can begin at any life stage but does worsen with age. Both men and women can experience restless leg syndrome though it most often affects men. Severity and frequency can vary.

Talk with your doctor if you are experiencing symptoms of restless leg syndrome.

SLEEP STUDIES

Sleep studies assist in diagnosing a variety of conditions and disorders, including sleep apnea, insomnia, narcolepsy, restless leg syndrome and sleepwalking.

Maury Regional Health conducts sleep studies with physican referral at locations in Columbia, Lawnrenceburg, Lewisburg and Waynesboro. Call 931.490.REST (7378) or visit MauryRegional.com/Sleep-Centers for more information.