What does a high PLMS index indicate?

A high PLMS (Periodic Limb Movement Sleep) index indicates a heightened frequency of involuntary limb movements that typically occur during sleep. These movements are characterized by repetitive episodes of extension or flexion of the legs, which can disrupt sleep and be associated with certain sleep disorders, such as Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) or PLMD (Periodic Limb Movement Disorder).

The PLMS index quantifies the number of these movements per hour of sleep, and an elevated index suggests that there is a significant increase in such movements. This can lead to sleep fragmentation and may contribute to poor overall sleep quality, which is often reflected in increased daytime sleepiness and fatigue.

In contrast, high levels of sleep efficiency, normal agitation levels, and improved sleep quality would not be characterized by a high PLMS index. Therefore, the indication of increased limb movement during sleep is the direct consequence of a high PLMS index, making it the correct interpretation of this phenomenon.