It is difficult to confirm exactly how Parkinson’s can affect RLS, or vice versa. It is a condition in its own right, occurring in people both with and without Parkinson’s – although it is thought to be almost twice as likely to occur in people with Parkinson’s as in people without.
RLS can also be difficult to diagnose in Parkinson's patients as it may be confused with other Parkinson’s symptoms such as akathisia or by wearing off. RLS can also cause night time pain which may be mistaken for arthritis in those with Parkinson's.
One of the biggest problems with Parkinson’s is sleep disruption and insomnia, and anything that contributes to this – like RLS - is of particular concern. At best, sleep disruption can lead to daytime tiredness and possible irritability. At worst, it can lead to anxiety and depression, although more research is needed into this. And it is not just the patient who may suffer: as RLS is sometimes accompanied by periodic limb movement (PLM) a sleeping partner may also be disturbed. In fact, many people with this condition find it easier to sleep alone.
