Sometimes PLMS can be part of other sleep disorders, such asnarcolepsyorrestless legs syndrome(RLS).
Rarely, PLMD can occur without another sleep disorder.
Excessive limb movements during sleep can cause daytime sleepiness.
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The diagnosis can involve a detailed medical history, as well as diagnostic testing with sleep studies.
This article describes PLMS and PLMD, including the symptoms, causes, and treatments.
When periodic limb movements are a recurrent problem during sleep, the condition would be defined as PLMD.
Periodic Limb Movement Symptoms
The main symptoms of PLMD are fatigue and daytime sleepiness.
Some people may also experience morning headaches.
The NREM sleep stages are stages of sleep when you arent dreaming.
Its normal to toss and turn during NREM sleep.
Associated Symptoms
It’s common for PLMS to be part of another sleep disorder.
These movements can also be recurrent as part of certain sleep disorders.
Rarely, the movements are a chronic problem without a risk factor or another sleep disorder.
Diagnosis
PLMS is diagnosed based on a medical history and testing.
Often, sleep disorders are considered when someone has symptoms of excessive daytime fatigue.
What Is a Polysomnogram Sleep Study?
Treatment
There are several treatment approaches for PLMS.
Your healthcare provider might recommend a combination of methods.
Periodic limb movements of sleep can improve with treatment.
Summary
PLMS can occur as part of PLMD or due to other sleep disorders or medical conditions.
If you experience daytime sleepiness, you should see a healthcare provider.
There are many causes of fatigue.
A medical history and physical examination can help narrow down the causes.
2022;12(9):2149. doi:10.3390/diagnostics12092149
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.Restless leg syndrome.
