title: Restless legs syndrome: diagnostic time-savers, Tx tips.
abstract: To diagnose restless legs syndrome (RLS), start with the 4 "essential criteria": (1) a powerful urge to move the legs that is (2) rest-induced, (3) improves with activity, and (4) worsens in the evening. Carefully screen for secondary causes of RLS, including renal failure, pregnancy, iron deficiency, and medications that can cause or exacerbate symptoms. Carbidopa/levodopa is the first-line treatment for patients with intermittent symptoms of RLS; dopamine agonists are recommended for those with daily or refractory symptoms.
authors.affiliation: Scottsdale Healthcare Family Medicine Residency Program, University of Arizona School of Medicine, 7301 East 2nd Street, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, USA. darlene.moyer@gmail.com
authors.forename: Darlene E
authors.initials: DE
authors.lastname: Moyer
authors.forename: Javier
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Zayas-Bazan
authors.forename: Gary
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Reese
mesh_terms: D003663:Decision Trees; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D005293:Ferritins / Q000097:blood; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D012148:Restless Legs Syndrome / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D012307:Risk Factors
chemical_list: D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents; D005293:Ferritins