A 50-year-old man with a history of chronic kidney disease presents with complaints of an irresistible urge to move his legs, especially at night. He finds relief upon moving. His symptoms have been disrupting his sleep. What is the likely diagnosis, and what treatment options are available?
This patient's symptoms suggest Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), which is not uncommon in individuals with chronic kidney disease. Treatment should first involve addressing any underlying issues, such as iron deficiency. If the patient is on dialysis, ensuring optimal dialysis is also important. Pharmacologic treatment options include the use of gabapentin, which is safe in renal insufficiency. Dopaminergic drugs are also used to treat RLS, but they must be used with caution in patients with renal impairment due to the risk of side effects and the need for dose adjustment.