Patient page. New evidence for reduced leg oxygen levels in restless legs syndrome.

WHY IS THIS STUDY IMPORTANT? Restless legs syndrome (RLS), also now known as Willis-Ekbom disease (WED), is common and affects about 10% of the general population. It affects women more than men. RLS/WED causes an uncomfortable urge to move the legs. It is often worse in the evening, especially around bedtime, and is temporarily improved by leg movement. RLS/WED may be caused by changes in the nerve transmitter dopamine. Dopamine is a signaling molecule that allows nerve cells to communicate with one another in the brain and spinal cord. Changes in dopamine may be linked to low levels of iron in the brain and body along with poor iron transport into the brain and changes in brain dopamine receptors. However, there is new evidence for problems with blood flow and leg oxygen levels in RLS/WED. These changes involve the cells of the blood vessel walls, or endothelium. These changes include reduced oxygen levels. There is also altered blood flow in the lower leg muscles in patients with RLS/WED.