Things You Might Not Be Aware Of About Restless Legs Syndrome

You are likely familiar with the sleepless nights that come with restless legs syndrome. It’s the condition that causes you to kick during sleep, leading to multiple wake-ups and disrupting your sleep routine.

But there are many aspects of this disorder that people are unaware of. Even those who are informed may find some surprising new information. Here are eight things you might not be familiar with about restless legs syndrome.

1. There’s An Association With Varicose Veins

Restless legs syndrome affects 7-10% of the U.S. population and can affect both men and women. However, women are slightly more prone to experiencing this condition.

A connection between restless legs syndrome and varicose veins has been observed, with some patients noticing a reduction in RLS symptoms after undergoing varicose vein removal surgery. Further research is needed to fully understand this relationship.

2. It Comes In Two Flavors

Restless legs syndrome can be categorized into two types: primary and secondary. Primary RLS is a neurological disorder that can develop in adulthood and may have a genetic component.

Secondary RLS, on the other hand, has an identifiable cause such as nerve damage, anemia, or other underlying medical conditions like kidney disease or arthritis.

3. Certain Medications May Cause It

If you have noticed your RLS symptoms worsening after starting a new medication, it’s crucial to speak with your doctor. Some medications, including anti-nausea drugs, antipsychotics, certain antidepressants, and older antihistamines, can trigger or exacerbate restless legs syndrome.

4. Pregnancy Can Spur Or Worsen Symptoms

Pregnancy can be a trigger for RLS symptoms, which can lead to sleep disturbances. Depletion of folic acid and iron during pregnancy, along with rising estrogen levels, are believed to contribute to the development of RLS in expectant mothers.

5. There’s a Link With Parkinson’s Disease And RA

Doctors believe that dopamine plays a crucial role in RLS, which is why some RLS medications overlap with those used for Parkinson’s disease. There is also a correlation between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and RLS, with approximately 30% of RA patients also experiencing RLS symptoms.

6. Spinal Cord Lesions May Contribute

Nerve damage, including damage to the spinal cord, can trigger RLS symptoms. Spinal cord lesions resulting from various causes can disrupt signals between the brain and legs, leading to misfires and the urge to move involuntarily.

7. It Could Be A Sign Of Kidney Trouble

Individuals with chronic kidney disease are more likely to experience RLS, especially those undergoing hemodialysis. Factors like anemia and high blood calcium levels associated with kidney disease can worsen RLS symptoms.

8. You May Need To Increase Your Iron Intake

Iron-deficiency anemia is a common environmental factor linked to RLS. Conditions like alcoholism, blood disorders, and autoimmune diseases can contribute to iron deficiency. Supplementing with iron has shown improvements in RLS symptoms, but it’s essential to be cautious about potential side effects and proper dosage.

Things You May Not Know About RLS

Restless legs syndrome remains a complex condition that causes significant distress. By learning about these lesser-known aspects of RLS, you can take steps to manage and alleviate its symptoms. Consult with your healthcare provider, and consider incorporating an iron supplement if necessary.