What Is Restless Legs Syndrome?
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, is a sleep-related condition that causes an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, especially during periods of rest or inactivity. Symptoms typically worsen in the evening or at night, making it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. Over time, RLS can lead to chronic sleep disruption, daytime fatigue, mood changes, and reduced quality of life. At El Paso Sleep Center, we help identify the underlying causes of RLS and guide effective treatment options to improve sleep.
RLS may be associated with neurological factors, iron deficiency, certain medical conditions, or medication effects, and its severity can vary widely among individuals. A comprehensive sleep evaluation allows specialists to determine contributing factors and develop a personalized care plan.
Causes, Risk Factors & Treatment Options
Although the exact cause of RLS is not fully understood, it is linked to changes in brain chemicals such as dopamine and may run in families. Risk factors include older age, pregnancy, iron deficiency or anemia, kidney disease, neurological conditions, and certain medications.
Treatment may involve lifestyle adjustments, iron supplementation when needed, prescription medications for moderate to severe symptoms, and evaluation for other sleep disorders like sleep apnea. At El Paso Sleep Center, our specialists create personalized treatment plans to help restore restful, uninterrupted sleep.
