Is this RLS (restless leg syndrome)?

Posted by Darlia @darlia, Oct 14, 2017

I have been a member of Mayo Connect in other groups too. I am trying to find out if the symptoms I have in my muscles is connected to anything I already have been diagnosed with.
Also, would it be a Rheumatologist or Orthopedic Dr. That I need for this? I asked the Rheumo and they said it's nothing that they handle. But I would think they would because it feels like muscles.
At night while relaxing, my legs get restless, want to tense up, like on rubber bands. Then my right arm, just my forearm starts to feel the same. Then it makes me put my hand into a "claw" as it intensifies.
Any clues anyone?
@darlia

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ccps101 | @ccps101 | Feb 25 11:56am

I have RLS secondary to Primary Biliary Cholangitis. It’s VERY common with PBC patients. And night is the worse. For me, Magnesium helps but she also gave me zolpediem as needed and checks iron and folic acid. My PBC is in check on Urso. Best to check with your medical team and cross check other medications.

stacy223 | @stacy223 | Aug 28 11:04am

In reply to @harliegirl "Have you had your iron level checked? I have had similar symptoms in my left leg..." + (show)

That's a really good point about iron, @harliegirl. I'm fairly new here, but I've dealt with RLS for years and I've heard this come up so often.

Many RLS specialists actually like to see ferritin levels higher than what's typically considered "normal" for people without RLS. It's definitely worth having your doctor check your ferritin specifically, not just general iron levels. If they are low, it's always best to talk with your doctor about how to safely increase them, as taking too much iron can have its own risks.