What Causes Restless Legs Syndrome?

Primary RLS

In most cases of restless legs syndrome (RLS), no cause can be found. When no cause can be found, the condition is called primary RLS. It is known, however, that primary RLS tends to run in families. People whose parents have RLS are more likely to develop the disorder. This suggests that there may be a genetic link that increases the chance of getting RLS.

Secondary RLS

Secondary RLS is RLS that is caused by another disease or condition, or as a side effect of certain medications. Some of the diseases and conditions that can cause RLS are:

• Iron deficiency (with or without anemia)
• Kidney failure
• Diabetes
• Parkinson’s disease
• Damage to the nerves in the hands or feet (peripheral neuropathy) (pe-RIF-e-ral noo-ROP-a-the)
• Rheumatoid arthritis (ROO-ma-toyd ar-THRI-tis)
• Pregnancy

RLS is common in pregnant women. It usually occurs during the last 3 months of pregnancy and usually improves or disappears within a few weeks after delivery. However, some women may continue to have symptoms after giving birth or may develop RLS again later in life.

Some of the types of medicines that can cause RLS are:

• Antiseizure medicines
• Antinausea medicines
• Antidepressants
• Some cold and allergy medicines

RLS symptoms usually go away when the medicine is stopped.

Certain substances can trigger RLS symptoms or make them worse. These substances include:

• Caffeine
• Alcohol
• Tobacco