Periodic leg movements during sleep is associated with microarousals and a stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system. The knowledge of this autonomic activation may help understanding the increase of cardiac risk observed in elderly. The aim of the study is to evaluate the relationship between periodic leg movements severity, age, gender, electromyographic power and heart rate response associated with periodic leg movements. Drug-free patients diagnosed with periodic leg movements were included. Clinical data and 24-h polysomnography recordings were analyzed.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Restless legs syndrome patients
• Hospital routine for periodic leg movements diagnosis
• PLMS index > 0

Exclusion Criteria:

• Narcolepsy-cataplexy
• Sleep irregularities and sleep deprivation symptoms
• Lack of neurological or psychiatric diseases
• Upper airway resistance syndrome
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Treatment, cerebral lesion, medical illness
• Medication or drinks affecting sleep and wake state

patients with restless legs syndrome with a diagnosis from January 1rst 2012 to september 1rst 2016.