Restless Legs Syndrome is recognized as a neurologic movement disorder of the limbs, often associated with a sleep complaint. Because RLS is a neurologic movement disorder that interrupts sleep, it can dramatically affect quality of life.
RLS is a characterized by sensory and motor abnormalities that are distinctive but frequently misdiagnosed. RLS may affect up to 12 million people in the United States. People with RLS commonly do not seek medical attention until middle age or later.
In addition, there may be a genetic component to it. A family history of RLS is often noted by patients with primary or idiopathic RLS; about 50% to 60% (or higher in some studies) report close relatives with the disease.
Researchers believe RLS may be associated with a deficiency of dopamine and/or serotonin.
The term Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) was first used in the mid-1940s by Swedish neurologist Karl A. Ekbom, although early descriptions date back to the 17th century.
WEMOVE (Worldwide Education and Awareness for Movement Disorders
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