Also, many currently available medications have side effects. If not properly diagnosed and treated, narcolepsy may have a devastating impact on the life of the affected individual, causing social, educational, psychological, and financial difficulties. There is often a positive family history of the disorder. Individuals affected with the disorder describe the sensations as pulling, drawing, crawling, wormy, boring, tingling, pins and needles, prickly, and sometimes painful sensations that are usually accompanied by an overwhelming urge to move the legs. Sudden muscle jerks may also occur.
Movement provides temporary relief from the discomfort.
In rare cases, the arms may also be affected. The symptoms often exhibit circadian rhythmicity in their peak occurrence during awakening hours. Treatment Treatment for restless legs syndrome is symptomatic. Massage and application of cold compresses may provide temporary relief. Current research suggests correction of iron deficiency may improve symptoms for some patients.