Health Tip: Restless Legs Are a Real Disorder

(HealthDay News) -- Restless legs syndrome is a neurological disorder with unknown cause. The Restless Legs Syndrome Foundation says RLS may be a side effect of another underlying condition, and it often occurs during pregnancy. Symptoms of RLS in pregnant women typically go away after birth.

RLS is characterized by an irresistible need to move your legs, especially when sitting or lying down. The longer you remain inactive, the worse symptoms may become. Once you begin moving again, the uncomfortable sensations usually disappear. Symptoms are typically worse at night, and are often described as an itching, pulling or gnawing feeling in the legs.

Drug therapy is used to treat the symptoms of RLS. The foundation recommends avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and suggests checking with your doctor to be sure that other medications aren't contributing to your RLS symptoms.