Are RLS Symptoms Screened in ADHD Diagnoses?

PostedSeptember 12, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 12, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Victoria Rowe, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS screening ADHD) is often overlooked in ADHD diagnoses, but it is essential to consider, as the two conditions can overlap. Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a neurological condition that causes an irresistible urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations. Many individuals with ADHD also experience RLS symptoms, which can disrupt sleep, leading to symptoms like restlessness, irritability, and inattention, which may be mistakenly attributed to ADHD.

Why RLS Symptoms May Be Overlooked in ADHD Diagnosis

While an ADHD diagnosis focuses on behavioural symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity, RLS symptoms can be less obvious and are often attributed to ADHD-related restlessness. The overlap between ADHD and RLS includes:

Sleep disturbances

Both ADHD and RLS can lead to poor-quality sleep, which can increase ADHD symptoms like fatigue, irritability, and poor focus.

Restlessness

The physical discomfort from RLS, often experienced in the legs during the evening, can appear like the hyperactivity seen in ADHD.

Inattention

Chronic sleep disruption from RLS can impair attention and cognitive function, making it harder to distinguish between RLS-related symptoms and core ADHD features.

Why RLS Should Be Part of ADHD Screening

Screening for RLS as part of the ADHD diagnosis is crucial to ensure that both conditions are properly addressed. Since sleep disturbances play a significant role in ADHD symptom management, recognising RLS can lead to better treatment plans. If RLS is suspected, healthcare providers may recommend:

Sleep studies

These can help diagnose RLS and distinguish it from other sleep-related issues.

Lifestyle adjustments

Managing RLS may involve improving sleep hygiene, regular exercise, or using medications like dopamine agonists or iron supplements.

By incorporating RLS screening into ADHD diagnosis, individuals can receive comprehensive care that addresses both ADHD symptoms and sleep disturbances. For more on restless legs syndrome and ADHD diagnosis, explore our complete guide to ADHD and reach out to providers like ADHD Certify.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Sleep disorders.

Victoria Rowe, MSc

Author

Victoria Rowe is a health psychologist with a Master’s in Health Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She has experience as a school psychologist, conducting behavioural assessments, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), and supporting children’s mental health. Dr. Rowe has contributed to peer-reviewed research on mental health, including studies on anxiety disorders and the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare systems. Skilled in SPSS, Minitab, and academic writing, she is committed to advancing psychological knowledge and promoting well-being through evidence-based practice.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.