# Restless Legs Screen

Restless legs syndrome (IRLSSG essential criteria)



RLS is a common, under-recognised cause of poor sleep. All four essential criteria must be present for a positive screen.



## The questions

1. Do you have an urge to move your legs, usually with uncomfortable or unpleasant sensations in the legs?

2. Does the urge begin or worsen during rest or inactivity (lying down or sitting)?

3. Is the urge partially or totally relieved by movement (walking, stretching), at least while the movement continues?

4. Is the urge worse in the evening or night than during the day (or only occurs then)?

5. Could these symptoms be explained solely by another condition (leg cramps, positional discomfort, arthritis, habitual foot tapping)?



## How scores are read

- **Negative screen** — You do not meet the essential criteria for RLS. Next step: No action. If leg discomfort disturbs sleep anyway, mention it to your doctor.

- **Probable RLS features** — You meet most criteria — or the symptoms may be explained by another condition. Next step: Discuss with your doctor; ask about ferritin/iron levels, which are commonly low in RLS.

- **Positive screen** — You meet all four essential criteria and no obvious mimic. RLS is treatable. Next step: See your doctor. Ask for ferritin/iron testing and a discussion of RLS treatment options.

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Educational summary of published research, not medical advice. Screening scores are not diagnoses. If a score is elevated or you feel unwell, talk to a clinician.

SleepShred for iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/app/id6802040541