In clinical studies, both disorders most often are associated
with either a mental or a physical disease, such as diabetes,
arthritic diseases, musculoskeletal diseases,
cardiovascular diseases, anemia, renal failure, OSA, and affective
disorders. A genetic factor may be present in RLS:
up to half the persons with the condition have a family history
of it. Treatment focuses on resolving any underlying
cause of the disorder using cognitive-behavioral and sleep
hygiene therapies and, if necessary, drug therapy. For RLS,
such over the counter (OTC) medications as acetaminophen
or a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug can be tried first.
In severe cases, a dopamine agonist ordinarily used in the
treatment of Parkinson’s disease may be effective.1