OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to establish the key aspects of RLS most closely associated with detrimental impacts on HRQL. Statistical relationships between various measures of RLS and HRQL for a sample of respondents with RLS were assessed.
BACKGROUND: RLS Ekbom syndrome is a common underdiagnosed neurological sensorimotor disorder characterized by an overwhelming urge to move the legs and often associated with unpleasant sensations in the legs. This condition is known to have a significant impact on sufferers HRQL. However little is known about the determinants of HRQL in respondents with RLS.
METHODS: Short Form SF36 data was collected as part of an omnibus survey of respondents who screened positive for RLS in the USA. Other variables collected included demographics self-reported severity of symptoms degree of distress and medical care. Relationships between these variables and the eight domains of the SF36 the overall physical PCS and mental MCS summary component scores were explored with multiple regression analysis using Ordinary Least Squares.
RESULTS: Of the 6014 people surveyed 454 7.5 screened positive for RLS and 424 of these completed the SF36 mean age for those completing the SF36 53 years SD 16. Respondents reporting severe RLS symptoms had significantly lower HRQL across all SF36 domains than those reporting mild symptoms. Patients reporting moderate or extreme distress about their RLS symptoms had significantly inferior HRQL on the Social Functioning domain than those reporting little or no distress p 0.018. Significantly diminished HRQL across a number of SF36 domains was seen in respondents currently treated with prescription medication compared with those not treated. The number of GP and specialist visits reported showed predictive capability across a number of physical domains.
CONCLUSIONS: This is the first study to investigate the determinants of HRQL in patients with RLS. Diminished HRQL in this sample was partly accounted for by the severity and distress from symptoms. The association of treatment and frequency of physician visits with lower HRQL may reflect increased use of healthcare resources by those most affected by RLS.
