Periodic limb movement disorder is continuous or wild movements of
the feet, arms, or legs during sleep. Sometimes the mouth and muscles in the
belly also move.
The movements of periodic limb movement disorder last for up to 10
seconds and may repeat after 5 to 90 seconds.
A person who has periodic limb movement disorder may wake up during
the movements. This can interfere with sleep and cause sleepiness during the
time the person wants to be awake.
If periodic limb movement disorder is causing problems, a doctor
may suggest medicines that prevent the movements or help with sleep during the
movements.
Periodic limb movement disorder is more common in older adults than
in younger people. It is diagnosed through sleep studies done in sleep
lab.
