What causes RLS and is it related to anemia?
There is no known definitive cause for restless leg syndrome but one area of interest is its connection with iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia. Iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia are the most common medical conditions associated with RLS and are present in more than 20% of all cases.16 Two other major factors related to RLS include renal disease and pregnancy, which are frequently accompanied by iron deficiency anemia.17 More recent studies have shown that decreased levels of stored iron in the body can make RLS symptoms worse.18,19 Additionally, researchers have found that not enough iron was getting to the brain cells of people who suffer from the symptoms of restless legs.
