Restless legs syndrome causes a strong urge to move the legs, mainly at rest and in the evening, with temporary relief from movement. Assessment focuses on the pattern, iron levels, medicines, pregnancy and kidney disease. A warm, swollen leg on one side is not ordinary RLS.
- A strong urge to move the legs that is hard to resist.
- Crawling, pulling, tingling, burning or a deep restless feeling.
- Keep regular sleeping and waking times.
- Exercise regularly during the day, but avoid very strenuous training just before bed.
- Make an appointment if symptoms affect sleep, mood, work or driving.
- For urgent GP care outside normal opening hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediately life-threatening situation.
Article status
- Version
- 1.0
- Purpose
- General medical information
- Last updated
- Sources consulted
- 8
Have you found an error or unclear information? Give feedback on this article.
General information, not personal medical advice
This article has been carefully prepared but may contain errors or become outdated as medical knowledge changes. It does not replace diagnosis, examination or treatment by your own GP. Always discuss personal questions and starting, stopping or changing medicines or treatments with your own GP.
For a life-threatening situation, call Ambulance 912. For urgent care outside office hours, call HAP 9252.
Read the full disclaimerYour response
Two anonymous questions
Did you find what you were looking for?
Do you now have a clearer idea of your next step?
Share article
Search by type of care, organisation, name or district.
