ask: What causes rls & what can I do to prevent it?

The exact cause is unknown. RLS may occur for no identifiable reason. This is called primary RLS. Or, it may be caused by other conditions or certain drugs. This is called secondary RLS.

Many people with RLS also have periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD). This is a related motor disorder characterized by:

• Involuntary, repetitive, jerking movements
• Interrupted sleep because of movement

Risk Factors

These factors increase your chance of developing RLS. Tell your doctor if you have any of these risk factors:

• Family members with RLS
• Pregnant—Some women have RLS during pregnancy. The symptoms usually go away after giving birth.
• Low iron levels (with or without anemia )—may happen if you give blood a lot.
• Northern European descent
• Chronic disease (which can lead to secondary RLS):
  • Peripheral neuropathy (diabetes)
  • Chronic kidney failure
  • Chronic venous insufficiency (varicose veins)
  • Radiculopathy (nerve problem)
  • Anemia
  • Diabetes
  • Cancer
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Congestive heart failure
• Certain medications (eg, tricyclic antidepressants)
• Withdrawing from certain drugs (eg, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors [SSRIs], lithium, caffeine, dopamine antagonists, sedating antihistamines)