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Restless Legs Syndrome, Periodic Leg Movements, Hypertension and Cardiovascular Diseases
Yves Dauvilliers1,2,3, Sofiene Chenini1,2,3, Lucie Barateau1,2,3
1Department of Neurology, Sleep-Wake Disorders Unit, Gui-de-Chauliac Hospital, University Hospital of Montpellier, Montpellier, France (Y.D., S.C., L.B.).
Circulation Research
|August 14, 2025
Summary
Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a common sleep disorder linked to cardiovascular disease. Managing RLS may help reduce cardiovascular risk and improve patient quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Cardiology
- Sleep Medicine
Background:
- Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a sensorimotor disorder impacting sleep and quality of life.
- RLS pathophysiology involves iron deficiency, dopamine dysregulation, and genetics.
- An association between RLS and cardiovascular disease (CVD) is reported but not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on RLS.
- To examine the epidemiological link between RLS, CVD, and hypertension.
- To explore mechanisms and risk reduction strategies for CVD in RLS patients.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review of existing studies.
- Analysis of epidemiological data on RLS and CVD.
- Discussion of potential pathophysiological mechanisms.
Main Results:
- RLS is underdiagnosed and poorly recognized.
- Periodic leg movements in RLS correlate with increased blood pressure and heart rate.
- Sleep disturbances in RLS may increase sympathetic tone and cardiovascular risk.
Conclusions:
- RLS is associated with increased cardiovascular risk.
- Mechanisms may involve nocturnal blood pressure changes and increased sympathetic activity.
- Multidisciplinary collaboration is crucial for RLS and CVD management.
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