Restless Leg Syndrome: What Causes It and How to Treat It

Imagine losing 2-3 hours of sleep every night due to the uncontrollable urge to move your legs.

It sounds awful, but that’s the reality for up to 10% of U.S. adults who live with Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), a condition that disrupts sleep, affects quality of life, and often goes undiagnosed.

Beyond lost sleep, untreated RLS is linked to long-term health problems such as fatigue, mood changes, and even heart disease. 

Studies show that poor sleep can contribute to hypertension and other cardiovascular issues, making early diagnosis and treatment of RLS even more critical.

If you’re experiencing unusual leg sensations or constant nighttime restlessness, don’t dismiss the symptoms. We’ll explore what causes restless leg syndrome and how to get lasting relief.

What Is Restless Leg Syndrome?

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), also known as Willis-Ekbom Disease, is a neurological disorder that interferes with sleep and rest.

People with RLS feel an irresistible urge to move their legs, often triggered or worsened by periods of inactivity, such as sitting or lying down. 

The sensations (tingling, crawling, itching, or burning) are uncomfortable and typically improve with movement.

Because symptoms appear most often at night and interrupt sleep, RLS is sometimes misdiagnosed as insomnia, anxiety, or even ADHD. But with the right evaluation, patients can find effective, targeted solutions.

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms

RLS symptoms can vary from mild to severe and may change over time. 

Common signs include:

• A tingling, burning, crawling, or itchy feeling in the legs
• An overwhelming urge to move your legs, especially at rest
• Worsening symptoms in the evening or at night
• Temporary relief when walking or stretching
• Difficulty falling or staying asleep

In severe cases, symptoms may appear every night and significantly affect sleep quality and daytime functioning. 

If these sensations sound familiar, start tracking when they occur and how long they last, as this can help your doctor diagnose and treat RLS effectively.

Causes and Risk Factors

While the exact cause of RLS isn’t always clear, two key factors are commonly involved:

• Dopamine Imbalance: Dopamine is a brain chemical that helps control movement. An imbalance can trigger abnormal leg sensations and movement urges.
• Iron Deficiency: Low iron levels can disrupt dopamine production, worsening RLS symptoms.

Other risk factors include:

• Age (symptoms often begin after age 40)
• Family history of RLS
• Pregnancy (especially during the third trimester)
• Chronic conditions like cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, or diabetes

Diagnosis at Our Cardiovascular Center

We take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing RLS, ensuring that we uncover the root causes of your symptoms. Your evaluation may include:

• Sleep Studies: These tests monitor nighttime leg movements and detect sleep disruptions.
• Blood Tests: Used to identify deficiencies in iron, magnesium, or vitamin D.
• Cardiovascular Screenings: RLS may be exacerbated by poor circulation, so we check for vascular issues to rule out underlying heart or vein problems.

A complete evaluation leads to a personalized treatment plan, ensuring that nothing is overlooked and your care is effective from the start.

Treatment for Restless Leg Syndrome: What Works Best

Restless leg syndrome is manageable. Depending on the severity and cause, treatment may include:

Medications

• Dopamine agonists (like ropinirole or pramipexole) to balance dopamine levels
• Iron supplements, if you are iron-deficient
• Anti-seizure or sleep medications in select cases

Lifestyle Changes

• Daily exercise, especially walking or stretching
• Sleep hygiene practices like maintaining a regular bedtime
• Reducing caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol
• Maintain a healthy diet rich in iron, magnesium, and vitamin D

Natural & Complementary Remedies

• Yoga, meditation, or breathing exercises
• Massage therapy or warm baths before bed
• Compression devices or pneumatic leg sleeves

Managing Restless Leg Syndrome While Pregnant

Pregnancy-related RLS affects up to 1 in 5 women, especially during the third trimester. It’s typically linked to hormonal changes and low iron levels and usually resolves after delivery.

Safe management strategies include:

• Eating iron-rich foods or taking supplements under medical guidance
• Engaging in light exercise and gentle stretching
• Practicing relaxation techniques like prenatal yoga or meditation

Most prescription medications should be avoided unless prescribed by your doctor, but non-invasive approaches can provide significant relief.

Restless Leg Syndrome Treatment for Children

Children with RLS often go undiagnosed or are mistakenly labeled as having behavioral disorders like ADHD. Signs may include:

• Difficulty sitting still
• Nighttime complaints of leg pain or “growing pains”
• Trouble falling or staying asleep

Treatment in children focuses on:

• Establishing healthy bedtime routines
• Improving diet and iron intake
• Encouraging physical activity during the day

Restless Leg Syndrome Is Treatable: Here’s How We Can Help

Millions of people experience the daily disruption of RLS, but you don’t have to suffer silently. Our specialists provide:

• Accurate diagnosis
• Personalized care plans
• Advanced cardiovascular and sleep-related screenings

Improving your sleep can improve your heart health, energy, and overall quality of life. Relief is possible, and it starts with a consultation.

Schedule your appointment today to take the first step toward restful nights and restored well-being.