Restless legs syndrome. How to provide symptom relief with drug and nondrug therapies

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a perplexing, debilitating, and fairly common condition that can be challenging to manage. Hallmark symptoms include an increase in the severity of sensations during rest and an irresistible urge to move the affected limbs. RLS often occurs concomitantly with periodic limb movement disorder. There are no known causes of RLS, but likely triggers include heredity, iron and vitamin deficiencies, caffeine, and alcohol. Chronic conditions such as diabetes, peripheral neuropathy, and Parkinson's disease can worsen and prolong RLS symptoms. Symptom management begins by establishing proper nutrition intake and improved sleep hygiene. If these fail, conservative pharmacologic treatment is appropriate, with regimens chosen from dopaminergic agents, benzodiazepines, opioids, and anticonvulsants.