How to help patients with restless legs syndrome - Discerning the indescribable and relaxing the restless

Restless legs syndrome is a common, potentially disabling condition that af fects about 10% to 15% of the general population and yet is often unrecogni zed and misdiagnosed. It is mainly diagnosed clinically and only rarely req uires polysomnography. The condition is usually primary and treatable. Firs t, however, secondary causes should be sought, especially iron deficiency a nd peripheral neuropathy, because when the source is an accompanying factor or condition, the syndrome may be curable. The most effective drugs are do paminergic agents, clonazepam, opioids, gabapentin, clonidine. Additional a gents are available that may be beneficialas add-on or alternative therapy.