Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder in which a person has abnormal sensations in the legs while sleeping or during other periods of inactivity. Tingling, burning, crawling and creeping are all terms used to describe the uncomfortable feelings associated with RLS. People with restless legs syndrome may have an uncontrollable urge to move their legs while at rest, a symptom that can lead to sleep disruption. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), as many as 12 million people in the United States show symptoms of RLS. Some cases of restless legs are ideopathic, with no known cause. Other cases may stem from a specific cause that may be preventable or reversible.
Chronic Illness
Chronic medical conditions that affect the nervous system can cause restless legs syndrome, as reported by NINDS. Diabetics who experience peripheral neuropathy, Parkinson's disease patients and people with kidney disease may all experience RLS symptoms. The RLS Foundation states that there is a link between this neurological condition and attention deficit disorder (ADD) as well. Managing the underlying disease may improve RLS symptoms.
Pregnancy
Normal body changes that women undergo during pregnancy may be a cause for temporary RLS. Most women who show signs of RLS do so during the last trimester or pregnancy, perhaps due to extra pressure put on the nerves from their growing babies. NINDS explains that the unpleasant sensations tend to subside within a month after delivery.
Anemia
The RLS Foundation states that low levels of iron and anemia are a risk factor for restless legs syndrome. A person who experienced the tingling or movement urges associated with RLS may be tested for iron deficiencies. RLS due to anemia or low iron may be reversible simply by taking supplements.
Medication Use
Medication use can be a cause of restless legs syndrome, or it may lead to an increase of symptoms if a patient already experiences symptoms. Drugs designed to combat nausea, treat and prevent seizures are among the medications that increase the likelihood of developing RLS. Antipsychotic drugs including haloperidol and phenothiazine may produce symptoms as well.
