Sleep lab testing is the only way to document your leg movements and confirm that you have PLMD. Some tests can help find medical causes such as anemia and metabolic disorders that could cause it.
Your doctor may refer you to a neurologist (a nervous system specialist) to rule out other neurological problems and confirm the diagnosis of PLMD.
- Blood tests check your blood cell counts and hemoglobin, basic organ functions, chemistry, and thyroid hormone levels. You can also use blood to test for infections.
- A urine sample can show traces of drugs that could cause sleep problems.