Study Design
- Study Type
- review
- Population
- General population review; notable subgroups include pregnant women and patients with anemia; vasodilators and IV iron used empirically
- Intervention
- The restless leg syndrome. intravenous iron (dose not specified)
- Comparator
- None
- Primary Outcome
- Characterization of restless leg syndrome symptoms, prevalence, and treatment approaches
- Effect Direction
- Neutral
- Risk of Bias
- Unclear
Abstract
The author reviews and provides examples of the restless leg syndrome (Ekbom's syndrome), emphasizing the frequency of the disorder and its distressing symptoms. The syndrome is characterized by a creeping, crawling sensation in the lower legs, usually at night. It is accompanied by an irresistible urge to move the legs, and this movement eventually relieves the symptoms. It is found in 5% of the general population, with a higher incidence in pregnant women and people with anemia, but no vascular, neurological or other abnormalities are found on examination. Patients are treated empirically with vasodilators or intravenous iron. The etiology is unknown.