Restlessness
An inability to sit still or relax, which can be related to anxiety, ADHD, or other conditions.
Conditions associated with restlessness
The following conditions have been associated with restlessness in medical literature. This is informational and not a diagnosis.
Anxiety Disorder
A group of mental health conditions characterized by excessive worry, fear, or nervousness that interferes wit...
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity....
Cluster Headache
Severe, recurring headaches that occur in cycles, typically centered on one eye with tearing and nasal congest...
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Persistent, excessive worry about everyday situations that is difficult to control and interferes with daily l...
Tests providers may use to investigate restlessness
When investigating restlessness, a healthcare provider may order one or more of the following laboratory tests. Test selection is a clinical decision made by a qualified professional.
CBC with Differential
Measures red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets to help evaluate overall health and detect disorder...
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
Measures 14 substances in the blood to assess kidney and liver function, electrolyte balance, and blood sugar ...
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)
Screens for thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism....
Symptoms commonly seen alongside restlessness
Difficulty Concentrating
Trouble focusing or paying attention, which can be caused by stress, sleep problems, depression, or other cond...
Hyperactivity
Excessive movement and restlessness, characteristic of ADHD....
Impulsivity
Acting without thinking about consequences, characteristic of ADHD....
Inattention
Difficulty sustaining attention on tasks, characteristic of ADHD....
Irritability
Easily annoyed or frustrated mood, which can be caused by stress, sleep problems, hormonal changes, or mood di...
Muscle Tension
Tight, tense muscles, which can be related to anxiety or stress....
When to seek care
Seek care from a qualified healthcare provider if restlessness is severe, persistent, worsening, or accompanied by concerning symptoms. If you think you have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the symptom restlessness mean?
Restlessness is a health sign or symptom described in medical literature. An inability to sit still or relax, which can be related to anxiety, ADHD, or other conditions.
Which conditions are associated with restlessness?
Restlessness has been reported in association with 4 conditions in the medical literature we index, including Anxiety Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Cluster Headache, Generalized Anxiety Disorder. These associations do not mean you have any of these conditions.
Should I see a doctor about restlessness?
You should discuss any persistent or concerning symptoms with a qualified healthcare provider. This website does not provide diagnosis. If you have severe symptoms or signs of a medical emergency, seek care immediately.