Sleep Awareness Week 2016: XenoPort launches campaign to raise awareness about impact of RLS on sleep

Nearly 7 million Americans suffer from restless legs syndrome (RLS). For many patients suffering from moderate to severe symptoms, RLS is debilitating – disrupting sleep, influencing mood, and negatively affecting everyday life. Restless Legs Syndrome is a common and treatable neurologic disorder, and the focus of a social media campaign – #StopMakingExcuses – being launched by XenoPort, Inc. Timed to recognize Sleep Awareness Week from March 6-13, 2016, the campaign is designed to raise awareness about the impact of RLS on sleep.

“Sleep disturbances can be very detrimental to a person’s productivity as well as have a negative impact on their overall quality-of-life,” said Robin Goldstein, Ed.D., Licensed Psychologist, Boca Raton, Florida. “More than four out of five people living with RLS, and over one third of their partners report that a restful night’s sleep is an area most affected by RLS. It’s time for them to stop making excuses for their symptoms and see a doctor for help.”

There are many patients living with RLS who delay seeking medical help for years. People who experience RLS symptoms may inappropriately attribute difficulty falling or staying asleep to in-somnia or other sleep disorders. By not discussing the underlying cause of their sleeping prob-lems they are often misdiagnosed.

Through the #StopMakingExcuses social media campaign, XenoPort wants to educate Ameri-cans about RLS and encourage meaningful dialogue, driving sufferers to talk to their doctor about RLS.

“Approximately 75 percent of people who experience symptoms consistent with RLS have not seen a doctor about their discomfort and sleep disturbances, said Richard K. Kim, M.D., chief medical officer of XenoPort. “#StopMakingExcuses is intended to raise awareness of RLS and is designed to generate a call-to-action encouraging people experiencing symptoms to prioritize a healthier night’s sleep by talking to a medical professional.”