Causes of RLS
Restless Legs Syndrome doesn’t have a specific cause although doctors suspect the condition has genetic causes. Approximately 50% of all people suffering from RLS have family members with the same condition. There are many other factors linked to the onset and worsening of the condition. These factors include;
Chronic diseases: A number of chronic diseases have been linked to RLS. The conditions include; iron deficiency, diabetes, kidney failure, Parkinson’s disease, and peripheral neuropathy. Studies have shown that treating these conditions offers some relief to RLS sufferers.
Medications: Some medicines have also been linked to RLS. They include; antipsychotic drugs, anti-nausea drugs, cold and allergy medicine containing sedating anti-histamines as well as antipsychotic medications. Some antidepressants also worsen RLS symptoms.
Pregnancy: Some pregnant women experience Restless Legs Syndrome mostly during the last trimester. Pregnancy-related RLS symptoms usually subside four weeks after delivery.
Other factors: RLS can also be triggered or worsened by factors such as sleep deprivation and alcohol use. Improving your sleeping patterns and stopping alcohol consumption may relieve or alleviate symptoms.
