What does restless legs feel like with iron deficiency anaemia?

The feeling is often deep in the calves or thighs and can be difficult to describe. You may notice an inner crawling, buzzing, pulling or itchy sensation rather than a skin itch. It commonly becomes more noticeable while resting, sitting or lying down, and may be strongest in the evening or at bedtime. Stretching or walking can ease it briefly, but symptoms may return when you stop. Iron deficiency anaemia may contribute to restless legs through low iron stores, although other causes are possible.

Note the timing of the sensations, their effect on sleep, and whether movement helps. Gentle stretching, walking, massage, a warm bath and a consistent bedtime routine may make rest easier. Arrange a medical review for blood testing if iron deficiency has not been confirmed. Do not begin iron tablets without advice: the cause of low iron should be considered, and the dose and product need to suit you.

Book an appointment if the symptoms disturb sleep, recur frequently, or occur with tiredness, breathlessness, paleness, dizziness or heavy menstrual bleeding. Seek urgent help for severe breathlessness, fainting, chest pain, sudden weakness, or a painful swollen leg. A clinician can assess iron levels and look for blood loss or another explanation rather than assuming the leg sensation has one cause.

Ask which blood tests can assess iron stores and anaemia, whether bleeding or diet may be contributing, and what treatment is suitable. Ask how soon symptoms and sleep should be reviewed after treatment begins.