Restless Legs Syndrome: What Conditions Can Cause It?
Topic Overview
Restless legs syndrome can be a secondary problem caused by another condition. Researchers continue their efforts to understand and define the relationship between this syndrome and:
- Iron deficiency or related anemia . The way the body metabolizes iron and certain proteins in the brain may be related to restless legs syndrome.
- Pregnancy. Approximately 20 out of 100 pregnant women develop restless legs syndrome. Women who have it before they become pregnant may have more noticeable and frequent symptoms during pregnancy.
- Kidney disease.
- Diabetes .
- Neurological diseases, including peripheral neuropathy, Parkinson's disease , and possibly radiculopathy (a pinched nerve), which is a disorder of the spinal nerve roots .
When you are diagnosed with restless legs syndrome, you may also be tested for one of these conditions if your symptoms suggest a specific cause. Your doctor may recommend one or more of the following tests:
- Blood tests, such as a complete blood count , iron (ferritin) levels , or chemistry screen. The results from these tests may help you and your doctor find out whether symptoms are related to anemia, low blood iron levels, kidney problems, or diabetes.
- Electromyogram and a nerve conduction study , if symptoms suggest that nerves are damaged.
Related Information
Credits
Current as of: November 20, 2019
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review: Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Martin J. Gabica, MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Karin M. Lindholm, DO - Neurology
- Top of the page
-
Next Section:
Related Information
-
Previous Section:
Topic Overview - Top of the page
-
Next Section:
Credits
-
Previous Section:
Related Information - Top of the page
Current as of: November 20, 2019
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review: Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine & Martin J. Gabica, MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Karin M. Lindholm, DO - Neurology