World Sleep 2022 | Effect of altitude on RLS

Previous studies have already shown that chronic exposure to altitude can worsen the symptoms of restless legs syndrome (RLS). Ambra Stefani, MD, PhD, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria, discusses the effect of altitude on RLS and describes the methodology and results of a study that aimed to investigate the effects of acute exposure to altitude on RLS symptoms. Results showed that at simulated high altitude there was a worsening of symptoms. These results need to be validated in a larger cohort of patients, but if confirmed by further studies, this study may have potential implications for the future treatment of RLS. This interview took place during the World Sleep Congress 2022 in Rome, Italy.