What are the causes of Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)?
In many patients, there is a strong family history; therefore genetic factors may play a role. For other RLS sufferers, there is no family history and no clear precipitating cause. For possibly 25% of patients, there may be an associated medical condition that can either aggravate or cause the symptoms. Patients with damage to the nerves in their hands and feet, which is called peripheral neuropathy, may have a higher incidence of this disorder than the general population. Peripheral neuropathy may be seen with conditions such as diabetes. Patients may present more with pain, pins-and-needles, and numbness in their feet that is associated with the uncomfortable sensations of Restless Legs Syndrome. Patients on dialysis because of kidney failure often have a high incidence of Restless Legs Syndrome. Patients with iron deficiency, whether that is during pregnancy or at other times, appear to be at a higher risk of developing Restless Legs Syndrome. In the situation where iron deficiency
