Restless Legs Syndrome Signs And Symptoms
People with restless legs syndrome feel uncomfortable sensations in their legs, especially when sitting or lying down, accompanied by an irresistible urge to move about. These sensations usually occur:
- deep inside the leg
- between the knee and ankle
- in the feet, thighs, arms, and hands (more rarely)
Although the sensations can occur on just one side of the body, they most often affect both sides.
Legs Kept In Motion
Because moving the legs (or other affected parts of the body) relieves the discomfort, people with restless legs syndrome often keep their legs in motion to minimize or prevent the sensations.
- they may pace the floor
- constantly move their legs while sitting
- toss and turn in bed
Most Find Restless Legs Syndrome Symptoms Lessen During The Day
Most people find the symptoms to be less noticeable during the day and more pronounced in the evening or at night, especially during the onset of sleep. For many people, the symptoms disappear by early morning, allowing for more refreshing sleep at that time.
Triggers For Restless Legs Syndrome Sensations
Other triggering situations are periods of inactivity such as:
- long car trips
- sitting in a movie theater
- long-distance flights
- immobilization in a cast
- relaxation exercises
