Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): Symptoms
People with Restless Legs Syndrome describe the sensations they experience in many ways. In 1995, the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group (IRLSSG) categorized RLS symptoms into four major areas that must be present for diagnosis:

1. There is a compelling urge to move the legs, usually accompanied or caused by uncomfortable and unpleasant sensations in the legs (paresthesias/dysesthesias).
   
2. The symptoms are partially or completely relieved by movement, as long as the movement continues.
   
3. The symptoms begin or worsen during periods of rest or inactivity, such as lying or sitting.
   
4. The symptoms are worse or only occur in the evening and at night.

Other symptoms of RLS include:

• Sleep disturbances and daytime sleepiness.
  
• Involuntary, repetitive, periodic, jerking limb movements that occur either in sleep or while awake and at rest. These movements are called periodic leg movements of sleep (PLMS) or periodic limb movement disorder. About 80% of people with RLS also have this condition.