Evaluation of Prevalence and Associated Factors of Restless Leg Syndrome among Medical Students at University of Tabuk, 2017

Abstract

Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a disorder affecting a significant portion of the general population. The syndrome has a strong family component and several comorbid conditions may be associated with RLS. Researches over the past 10 years had highlighted its heritability and had shed some interesting light to this disorder. Restless legs syndrome (RLS), or Willis-Ekbom disease, is a neurological disorder that is characterized by unpleasant or painful sensations in the legs and a distressing, irresistible urge to move them. RLS symptoms worsen during inactivity and at night. Partial or complete relief may result from movement such as walking, stretching, or bending of the legs. Yet, the relief is often temporary and symptoms return when movement ceases. Aim of the work: this study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and associated factors of restless leg syndrome among Medical Students at University of Tabuk. Methods:we have conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study in Tabuk city population, Saudi Arabia. The study was conducted during the period from July to December 2017. The participants who attended the college of medicine at university of Tabuk were included in the study. The total sample obtained was 151. A self-administered questionnaire about restless leg syndrome was filled by the participants. Results: age of the participants was ranged from 18 to 27 years old, with a mean (SD) of 22.72 (1.837), the majority were 6th year medical students (39.7%). 39.7% reported that they had urge to move the legs with unpleasant sensations in the legs, from those who reported they had urge to move the legs with unpleasant sensations in the legs, 80% of them reported that it is relieved by movements. Conclusion: more attention is needed on recognition of RLS among medical students and to manage the aggravating factors of RLS.