What are the risk factors for restless legs syndrome?

Restless legs syndrome causes an urge to move the legs, often with crawling, pulling or uncomfortable sensations that become more noticeable while resting and may disturb sleep. Low iron can affect the brain pathways involved in movement and sensation; iron-deficiency anaemia is one possible reason for low iron. Chronic kidney disease can also be associated with this condition. Symptoms may run in families, and pregnancy can bring temporary symptoms, particularly later in pregnancy. Some medicines, including certain allergy, nausea or mental-health medicines, may worsen symptoms in some people. A risk factor does not confirm the diagnosis, and people can develop restless legs syndrome without an obvious trigger.

Arrange a medical review if leg sensations repeatedly interrupt sleep, make sitting difficult or create an urge to move that improves only while moving. A clinician may ask about your sleep, family history, pregnancy, kidney health and medicines, and may check for iron deficiency before recommending treatment. Do not start iron tablets without advice, because the right treatment depends on your iron results and overall health. Keeping a regular sleep schedule, limiting caffeine later in the day and adding gentle activity may reduce symptoms for some people.

Seek prompt medical advice if new leg discomfort is persistent, rapidly worsening or accompanied by weakness, swelling, skin colour change or severe pain. Those features can have causes other than restless legs syndrome. Ask for assessment sooner if symptoms are affecting sleep, work or driving, or if you have known kidney disease or possible anaemia. Urgent help is needed for sudden one-sided weakness, trouble speaking, chest pain or breathlessness.

Could low iron or kidney disease be contributing to my symptoms? Should my medicines be reviewed? What symptoms would suggest a different leg problem?