At Your Appointment

Restless Legs Syndrome Appointment Guide

Ask the right questions at your next doctor’s appointment. Answer two questions below to personalize your appointment guide.

• Has a doctor diagnosed you or your loved one with restless legs syndrome?

  1. Yes, diagnosed
  2. No, undiagnosed
• What is the reason for this appointment?

  1. Evaluation for a possible diagnosis of restless legs syndrome
  2. New or worsening symptoms
  3. Medication issues or side effects
  4. Second opinion
  5. Other
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Top Questions Your Doctor May Ask You About Restless Legs Syndrome Knowing the types of questions you can expect your doctor to ask at your appointment can help you provide the information he or she needs to give you the best care.

• Are you keeping a sleep diary? Can we review it together?
• What medicines do you take? Do you take an antidepressant, antipsychotic, anti-nausea drug, or allergy medicine?
• How long does it take you to fall asleep most nights? Do you stay asleep or awaken during the night?
• Describe how you feel during the day. Do you wake up refreshed or feel tired, have trouble staying awake, or nap during the day?
• How much caffeine, alcohol or tobacco do you use during a typical day?
• How often do you exercise during a typical week? What types of exercises do you do?
• Do you have a strong or irresistible urge to move your legs? Is it worse at night or during the day?
• Describe any other symptoms you have. Do you experience sensations, such tingling, pulling, crawling or cramping?
• Do your symptoms start or get worse when you are at rest, such as lying down, or when you are active?
• Do your symptoms improve with rest or with activity, such as walking or stretching?
• What other medical conditions do you have? When was your last blood test with an iron level?
• How well is your medicine controlling your symptoms? Have you noticed your symptoms occurring earlier in the day than usual?
• What is your main concern about a restless legs syndrome diagnosis?
• What new symptoms are you experiencing?
• Do you know of anyone in your family who has restless legs syndrome?

Top Questions To Ask Your Doctor About Restless Legs Syndrome Many people forget to ask important questions at their doctor's appointments. You may want to print or write these questions down before your appointment so you remember to get the answers you need.

• Do my symptoms mean I have restless legs syndrome?
• Could another medical condition be causing or contributing to my symptoms?
• Could any of my medications for other health issues be causing my symptoms?
• How do you diagnose restless legs syndrome?
• Do I need to see a sleep specialist?
• How effective is the restless legs syndrome medicine you are recommending?
• What are my options if this medicine does not help my symptoms?
• What lifestyle changes or self-care strategies can I use to improve my symptoms?
• What medicines or substances should I avoid?
• What details should I include in my sleep diary?
• What side effects are common with my restless legs syndrome medicine? Is my medicine addicting?
• Are my new or different symptoms related to restless legs syndrome?
• What other recommendations do you have for treating my case of restless legs syndrome?

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