 |
print the page |  |
email the page |  |
|
- What is restless legs syndrome?
- Symptoms of restless legs syndrome
- Causes of restless legs syndrome
- Prevention of restless legs syndrome
- Risk factors for restless legs syndrome
- Complications of restless legs syndrome
- When to see a doctor about restless legs syndrome
- Diagnosis of restless legs syndrome
- Conventional treatment of restless legs syndrome
- Alternative/complementary treatment of restless legs syndrome
- Living with restless legs syndrome
- Caring for someone with restless legs syndrome
Diagnosis of restless legs syndrome
Initial diagnosis of restless legs syndrome is done through the following tests:
- Medical history of symptoms - the doctor will ask a series of questions about your symptoms (especially the duration and severity), your family medical history (if anyone else has similar symptoms), onset of symptoms and to determine whether you are in one of the groups at risk of restless legs syndrome
- Physical examination - the doctor will examine the legs, feet and hands for signs of the disorder and also perform a general checkup of lungs and heart (blood pressure), if needed
If secondary restless legs syndrome is suspected due to nutrient deficiencies, based on initial examination, then the following tests will be requested:
- Blood tests - a blood test can be performed to detect if there any deficiencies of certain nutrients (iron, magnesium and vitamin B12), if the doctor suspects that these deficiencies may be the underlying cause of secondary RLS
Sections: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12
< 7: when to see a doctor 9: conventional treatment > Last reviewed: 29 October 2007 || Last updated: 5 February 2009
Related Articles
NOTE: Mega doses of any type of vitamin, mineral, amino acid or herbal supplement cannot cure illnesses and in fact can be very dangerous and produce toxic side effects and interfere with medicine you are taking. Always ensure you consult your doctor before taking any type of complementary supplements.
Disclaimer: This guide is not intended to be used for diagnostic or prescriptive purposes. For any treatment or diagnosis of illness, please see your doctor.
