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Restless Leg Syndrome in Hemodialysis Patients: A Narrative Review
Sajeda G Matar1,2, Zeinab S El-Nahas2,3, Hala Aladwan1,2
1Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan.
The Neurologist
|April 20, 2022
Summary
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) in dialysis patients significantly impacts quality of life and survival. Current treatments offer limited long-term benefits, necessitating further research for effective therapies.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Neurology
- Sleep Medicine
Background:
- Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is common in end-stage renal disease.
- Multifactorial causes include genetics, diet, vitamin deficiencies, and iron metabolism.
- Dopamine deficiency in the basal ganglia is implicated in RLS pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and management of RLS in hemodialysis patients.
- To highlight the impact of RLS on patient morbidity, mortality, and quality of life.
- To explore current and needed therapeutic strategies for RLS in this population.
Main Methods:
- Literature search conducted in PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane databases.
- Identification of articles discussing RLS in hemodialysis patients.
- Synthesis of findings on RLS epidemiology, pathogenesis, and treatment.
Main Results:
- RLS adversely affects morbidity, mortality, and quality of life in dialysis patients.
- Symptoms include insomnia, fatigue, mental health issues, and movement problems.
- Numerous pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments exist, but none provide long-term efficacy.
Conclusions:
- Improved understanding of RLS pathogenesis is crucial for developing targeted therapies.
- A variety of treatment options are available and should be individualized.
- Further research is needed to identify more specific and efficient RLS treatments for dialysis patients.
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