Autonomic Dysfunction in Restless Legs Syndrome and Yoga

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a common sleep disorder with underestimated clinical consequences.Epidemiological studies report higher prevalence and incidence of hypertension and cardiocerebrovascular diseases (CVDs) in RLS.Dysautonomia is common in RLS, implying an increased risk of CVD, which is due to disturbed sleep and dopamine dysregulation, causing sympathetic overdrive.Iron deficiency and central autonomic dysfunction also decrease parasympathetic drive, resulting in a sympathovagal imbalance.Interestingly, yoga reduces sympathetic activity, increases parasympathetic drive, maintains autonomic balance, and improves RLS symptoms.This review examines the relationship between RLS and autonomic nervous system (ANS) dysfunction, its cardiovascular implications, and the potential therapeutic role of yoga.