Comorbidity Between Restless Legs Syndrome and Migraine: Observations From a Tertiary Care Center in Northern India

Migraine is a prevalent primary headache disorder associated with substantial disability. Restless legs syndrome (RLS), a sensorimotor disorder linked to dopaminergic dysfunction, has been increasingly reported as a comorbidity in migraine, particularly in chronic forms and those with aura. Data on this association in the Indian population remain limited.

To determine the prevalence of RLS in patients with migraine and assess clinical correlations including age, gender, aura status, disease duration, and disability.

A cross-sectional observational study was conducted over 12 months at a tertiary care hospital in North India. Adults aged 18-65 years diagnosed with migraine (ICHD-3 criteria) were consecutively enrolled. RLS was diagnosed using IRLSSG criteria. Patients were stratified into two groups based on RLS presence. Disability was assessed using the Migraine Disability Assessment (MIDAS) questionnaire. Statistical analysis included independent t-tests and Chi-square tests; P < 0.05 was considered significant.

Of 150 migraine patients, 54 (36%) met diagnostic criteria for RLS. The RLS group had a higher mean age than the non-RLS group (45.2 ± 11.9 vs. 38.2 ± 12.2 years; P = 0.001). RLS prevalence was significantly higher in patients with aura (64.8%) than in those without (21.9%; P < 0.001). The mean migraine duration was longer in the RLS group (13.7 ± 7.3 vs. 9.6 ± 7.4 years; P = 0.001). MIDAS scores were also significantly higher in the RLS group (15.3 ± 6.7 vs. 9.8 ± 4.2; P < 0.001). Gender distribution did not differ significantly.

RLS is a frequent comorbidity in migraine, particularly among older patients and those with aura. Its presence is associated with longer migraine duration and greater disability. Routine screening for RLS in migraine patients may aid in comprehensive management and potentially reduce disease burden.