Published on: 6/12/2025
What are the potential causes of restless leg syndrome?
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) can be caused by genetic factors, low iron levels, kidney disease, peripheral nervous system disorders, or certain medications.
Explanation
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a condition that makes you feel like you have to move your legs, especially at night. There are a few reasons why someone might get RLS.
- Genetic Factors: Some people have a higher chance of getting RLS because it runs in their family.
- Iron Deficiency: Low levels of iron in the blood can lead to RLS. Iron is important for brain function, and a lack of it might affect how your brain signals your legs.
- Kidney Problems: People with kidney disease might have RLS because their kidneys are not working well, which can affect the balance of minerals and vitamins in their body.
- Medications: Some medicines can cause RLS as a side effect. These include certain types of antidepressants and medications used to treat nausea.
Understanding these causes can help in managing and treating RLS. If you think you have RLS, it's a good idea to talk to a healthcare provider for advice and possible treatments.
(References)
- Gossard TR, Trotti LM, Videnovic A, & St Louis EK. (2021). Restless Legs Syndrome: Contemporary Diagnosis and .... Neurotherapeutics : the journal of the American Society for Experimental NeuroTherapeutics, 33880737.
- Satija P, & Ondo WG. (2008). Restless legs syndrome: pathophysiology, diagnosis and .... CNS drugs, 18484792.
- Carrillo F, & Mir P. (2009). [Symptomatic causes of restless legs syndrome]. Neurologia (Barcelona, Spain), 20340060.
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