The relationship between restless legs syndrome and bronchial asthma

IntroductionRestless legs syndrome (RLS) is associated with sleep disorders. However, although sleep disturbance is prevalent in people with asthma, an insufficient number of studies have investigated the relationship between asthma and RLS. ObjectivesWe aimed to determine the extent of the presence of RLS, and the factors related to RLS, in people with asthma. MethodsA total of 84 people with asthma and 51 healthy volunteers were enrolled. The diagnosis of RLS was made according to the criteria determined by the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group, and the Beck Depression and Beck Anxiety scales were used to assess both groups. The Asthma Control Test(ACT) was carried out to determine asthma control status. ResultsRLS was detected in 27 (32.1%) of the asthma group and in 8 (15.7%) of the control group. The frequency of RLS was significantly higher in the asthma group than in the control group (P=.034). Although no significant relationship was observed between the presence of RLS and the use of an inhaled steroid, use of a 2 agonist and age; a significant relationship was found between the presence of RLS and, ACT score, symptoms of depression and anxiety and gender (P<.05). ConclusionsRLS was more frequent in people with asthma than in healthy individuals, and as asthma control decreased, frequency of RLS increased. It was concluded that it would be useful to evaluate people with asthma, particularly those with symptoms of depression and anxiety, with regard to RLS in order to address, and ultimately improve, their quality of life.