Posted by DrKogan on August 13, 2000 at 16:07:12:In Reply to: Restless Legs Syndrome & Sleep Apnea posted by Robert Dollinger, M.D. on June 29, 2000 at 20:16:30:
No sleep study is not needed for RLS - it is a clinical diagnosis. The disorder manifests as Creeping - crawling sensation in one's legs when the person lies down to rest, it is relieved by motion. 80% of RLS is associated with PLM disorder, and 30% of PLM disorder is associated with RLS. Treatment - L-dopa (I use Senemet SR 25/100 Q hs), can alternatively use pergolide - another dopa agonist. Bensodiasepines could be used if sleep apnea is not present. Opiates may help too - but addiction may develop