Restless legs syndrome in patients on chronic hemodialysis

Abstract

Background

To access the prevalence of restless legs syndrome (RLS) in patients on chronic hemodialysis and to determine the risk factors for RLS.

Materials and methods

Fifty subjects undergoing chronic maintenance hemodialysis were included in this study after seeking informed consent. RLS was diagnosed according to International Restless Legs Syndrome study group criteria. Demographic data, clinical history and laboratory values are collected using standard interviews.

Results

RLS was reported in 14 of 50 hemodialysis patients (28%). Low hemoglobin, low serum ferritin levels and increased consumption of coffee in hemodialysis patients correlated significantly with onset of RLS. There was no difference in age, gender and duration of hemodialysis between RLS and non-RLS patients.

Conclusion

RLS is prevalent in patients on chronic hemodialysis. Further studies are needed to confirm the possible risk factors for RLS.