Symptoms of Insomnia

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a disorder of the part of the nervous system that affects the movement of the legs. Symptoms can occur during long periods of immobility, such as during travel or sleep. In most people with RLS, the symptoms are usually worse at night while lying in bed, and will often keep them awake. This disruption in sleep is why RLS is classified as a sleep disorder.

RLS is characterized by sensations felt in the legs that have been described as a creeping, crawling feeling deep in the muscles, itchiness or pins and needles. These sensations often force people out of bed because walking and movement will many times relieve the symptoms. Although the feelings are not generally painful, they are uncomfortable, and can lead to sleep deprivation, anxiety and depression.

An estimated 10% of the population suffers from RLS. Symptoms can range from mild to severe or intolerable. Both men and women are affected. The syndrome can appear as early as infancy, and gradually worsens over time in two-thirds of people with the condition. In young adults the symptoms are generally mild, but by age 50 may become severe enough to profoundly disrupt sleep and diminish quality of life. The symptoms may worsen during pregnancy and in individuals with an iron deficiency.

Periodic Limb Movement Disorder

Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD) is similar to RLS, however symptoms only occur during sleep. It is characterized by a range of behaviors from slight, constant movement of the ankle or toes, to flailing or swinging of the arms and legs. Abdominal, oral and nasal movement may also occur in some cases. The movements often result in partial or complete awakening from sleep. Because PLMD can cause a disruption in sleep as well as insomnia and excessive sleepiness during the day, it is considered a sleep disorder. An estimated 5% of people between 30 and 50 years old and 44% of people over 65 years old suffer from PLMD.

Both PLMD and RLS are classified as forms of parasomnia, which are conditions that occur while a person is sleeping and create a disruptive event or awakening. The frequent and involuntary muscle spasms that occur during these disruptive events are called nocturnal myoclonus. At the present time, there is no cure for these conditions; however, continual treatment with certain types of medications will often reduce or eliminate the symptoms.