Restless legs syndrome in women: a review

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder with significant negative impact on sleep and quality of life, yet data suggest that it is frequently underdiagnosed. The clinical features, diagnosis, epidemiology, pathophysiology, and treatment options for RLS are reviewed and discussed, with particular emphasis on RLS in women. RLS is characterized by unpleasant sensations causing an urge to move the legs. RLS symptoms are exacerbated by rest, relieved by movement, and worse at night than during the day. The motor and sensory symptoms of RLS can have a negative impact on patients' sleep, resulting in a reduction in daytime functioning and overall quality of life. The prevalence of RLS is reported to increase with age and to be up to almost twice as high in women as in men. The explanation for this is unknown, although there is evidence that parity may be a factor. Diagnosis of RLS is made using four essential criteria based on the patient's report of sensorimotor symptoms. Several large, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies have demonstrated that dopamine agonists, such as ropinirole and pramipexole, are an efficacious first-line therapy for the treatment of RLS symptoms. As RLS is more prevalent in women, professionals working in the field of women's health need to be aware of this condition, its differential diagnosis, and the treatment options available. Accurate diagnosis is essential to facilitate appropriate management and treatment. Dopamine agonists have been shown to be an effective therapy for patients with moderate to severe symptoms of RLS.