Frequency of Restless Legs Syndrome in Hemodialysis Patients

Abstract

Background: Restless legs syndrome is a prevalent neurological complication among hemodialysis patients. This study aimed to determine the frequency of restless legs syndrome in hemodialysis patients and identify associated risk factors. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Shalamar Hospital, Lahore, from January to June 2025. Eighty-eight hemodialysis patients aged 18-70 years, receiving twice-weekly dialysis for minimum six months with normal electrolyte levels, were enrolled using consecutive sampling. Restless legs syndrome was assessed using the International Restless Legs Syndrome Scale, with scores ≥10 indicating positive diagnosis. Chi-square tests examined associations between demographic variables and restless legs syndrome occurrence. Results: The mean participant age was 51.2±12.8 years, with 52 males (59.1%) and 36 females (40.9%). Restless legs syndrome prevalence was 46.6% (n=41), with mean International Restless Legs Syndrome Scale score of 18.3±6.2 among affected patients. Severity distribution showed 28 patients (68.3%) with mild symptoms, 11 patients (26.8%) with moderate symptoms, and 2 patients (4.9%) with severe symptoms. Significant associations were found between restless legs syndrome and female gender (22/36, 61.1% versus 19/52, 36.5%; p=0.028), dialysis duration >24 months (30/54, 55.6% versus 11/34, 32.4%; p=0.011), and afternoon dialysis sessions (22/37, 59.5% versus 19/51, 37.3%; p=0.022). Diabetic nephropathy was the most common etiology among restless legs syndrome patients (22/38, 57.9%). Conclusions: Restless legs syndrome affects nearly half of hemodialysis patients, with female gender, prolonged dialysis duration, and afternoon scheduling as significant risk factors. Routine screening protocols are essential for early identification and management of this prevalent neurological complication.