Restless legs syndrome
ICD-10 G25.81 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of restless legs syndrome.
Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, typically in response to uncomfortable sensations. These sensations are often described as creeping, crawling, tingling, or burning and are usually worse during periods of inactivity, particularly in the evening or at night. Patients may experience significant difficulty in falling asleep or staying asleep due to these symptoms, leading to daytime fatigue and impairment in quality of life. RLS can be associated with various conditions, including iron deficiency, chronic kidney disease, and peripheral neuropathy. It is also commonly seen in patients with Parkinson's disease and other extrapyramidal disorders, where dopaminergic medications may exacerbate or alleviate symptoms. The pathophysiology of RLS is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve dysfunction in the brain's dopamine pathways, which are also implicated in movement disorders. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on patient history and symptomatology, and may require exclusion of other conditions.
Detailed patient history, including symptom onset, frequency, and impact on sleep.
Patients presenting with sleep disturbances and leg discomfort, particularly those with a history of Parkinson's disease.
Consideration of medication side effects and interactions, especially with dopaminergic agents.
Sleep studies and assessments of sleep quality and disturbances.
Patients with insomnia or excessive daytime sleepiness due to RLS symptoms.
Documentation of sleep patterns and the impact of RLS on overall sleep health.
Used to evaluate sleep disturbances in patients with RLS.
Document the need for sleep study based on RLS symptoms.
Sleep specialists should ensure comprehensive sleep history is included.
The primary symptoms include an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations, particularly during periods of inactivity.
