What are the symptoms of periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD)?
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Symptoms of Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD)
Excessive Limb Movements During Sleep
Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD) is primarily characterized by excessive limb movements during sleep, known as periodic limb movements in sleep (PLMS). These movements are typically involuntary and repetitive, occurring at regular intervals throughout the night .
Sleep Disturbances and Daytime Fatigue
One of the most significant symptoms of PLMD is sleep disturbance. The involuntary limb movements often lead to frequent awakenings or arousals, which fragment sleep and reduce its quality. This disruption can result in insomnia, making it difficult for individuals to fall or stay asleep . Consequently, patients often experience excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue due to the poor quality of sleep .
Leg Kicks and Sensory Symptoms
Patients with PLMD frequently report experiencing leg kicks during sleep. These kicks are often described as sudden, jerky movements that can be strong enough to wake the individual or their bed partner. Additionally, some patients may experience sensory symptoms such as crawling or aching sensations in their legs, which can further contribute to sleep disturbances.
Mimicking Other Sleep Disorders
PLMD can sometimes mimic other sleep disorders, such as REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD). For instance, patients may exhibit intense sleep-talking and body movements that resemble RBD episodes. However, these symptoms occur during non-REM sleep and are associated with PLMS-induced arousals. This overlap in symptoms necessitates careful diagnosis to distinguish between PLMD and other sleep disorders.
Association with Other Conditions
PLMD is often associated with other medical and neurological conditions. For example, it is commonly found in patients with restless legs syndrome (RLS), narcolepsy, sleep apnea syndrome, and various neuropsychiatric disorders. In children, PLMD has been linked to attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and may present with similar symptoms .
Conclusion
Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD) is characterized by excessive limb movements during sleep, leading to significant sleep disturbances and daytime fatigue. Patients often report leg kicks and sensory symptoms such as crawling or aching sensations in their legs. The disorder can mimic other sleep conditions, making accurate diagnosis crucial. PLMD is also associated with various medical and neurological conditions, highlighting the need for comprehensive evaluation and management.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Clinical symptomatology and treatment of restless legs syndrome and periodic limb movement disorder.
Periodic limb movement disorder
Can periodic limb movement disorder be diagnosed without polysomnography? A case-control study.
[Abnormal nocturnal behavior mimicking REM sleep behavior disorder episodes in a patient with periodic limb movement disorder].
Restless Legs Syndrome and Periodic Limb Movement Disorder in Children and Adolescents: Comorbidity with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Prevalence of restless legs syndrome and periodic limb movement disorder in the general population.
Restless legs syndrome and periodic limb movement disorder in children and adolescents.
Periodic leg movements in sleep and periodic limb movement disorder: prevalence, clinical significance and treatment.
Changes in cerebral and autonomic activity heralding periodic limb movements in sleep.
Periodic limb movement disorder in children.
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