RLS is due to a combination of genetics, environmental factors and comorbid conditions, though a single unifying cause has not been identified. So far, research has determined:

• RLS often runs in families. This is called primary or familial RLS. Several studies have shown multiple small variations across multiple genes are associated with an increased risk of developing RLS.
• RLS sometimes appears to be a result of another condition, which, when present, worsens the underlying RLS. This is called secondary RLS.
• Anemia and low iron levels (ferritin) frequently contribute to a worsening of symptoms.
• Up to 25% of women develop RLS during pregnancy, but symptoms often disappear after giving birth.
• RLS is very common in patients requiring dialysis for end-stage renal disease.
• Damage to the nerves of the hands or feet (i.e., peripheral neuropathy) from any number of causes, including diabetes, contributes to RLS.
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is common in children and adults with RLS.

Yes, restless legs syndrome can affect the arms, trunk or even the face.

Over the past two decades, research has linked brain iron deficiency to the development of RLS. If an underlying vitamin deficiency is found to cause your disease, supplementing with iron (as directed by your healthcare provider) may reduce or even alleviate your symptoms.

Anecdotally, supplements such as magnesium, vitamin B12 and folate have lessened RLS symptoms.

Because the use of even moderate amounts of some minerals (such as iron, magnesium, potassium and calcium) can impair your body's ability to use other minerals or can cause toxicity, you should use mineral supplements only on the advice of your healthcare provider.

Please refer to our Understanding Iron and RLS publication for more information. This resource is available to Foundation members in the Member Portal along with other materials to help you manage RLS. If you are not a member, we invite you to join now.

Yes. These include:

• Dopamine agonist agents can worsen RLS over time, including ropinirole, pramipexole, rotigotine and carbidopa/levodopa.
• Antihistamines, especially those containing diphenhydramine (like Benadryl), which is found in many cold, allergy and over-the-counter sleep aids.
• Sleep aids, specifically all over-the-counter sleeping pills containing diphenhydramine or doxylamine.
• Antidizziness/antinausea medications like Antiver, Compazine, Phenergan and Reglan.
• Antidepressants such as Elavil, Prozac, Lexapro and Effexor.
• Psychiatric medications such as Haldol and phenothiazines are used to treat bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and other serious disorders.

Always be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all the medications you are taking, including herbal supplements and over-the-counter medications.

For more information, please refer to our Triggers for RLS publication. This resource is available to Foundation members in the Member Portal along with other materials to help you manage RLS. If you are not a member, we invite you to join now.

Some foods and other substances are known to increase RLS symptoms. Caffeine, which is a trigger for some individuals, should be avoided, including chocolate and caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea and soft drinks. Some report a worsening of RLS with increased refined sugar. For a complete list of RLS triggers, please refer to our Triggers for RLS publication. This resource is available to Foundation members in the Member Portal along with other materials to help you manage RLS. If you are not a member, we invite you to join now.

Exercise can be used to reduce RLS symptom severity, however the exact mechanism for how exercise reduces RLS severity is unknown. Keep in mind, vigorous or extreme exercise often worsens RLS. It is important to consult with your healthcare provider to determine a safe and effective exercise plan that works for you.

Please refer to our Can an Active Lifestyle Prevent or Improve RLS Symptoms? publication. This resource is available to Foundation members in the Member Portal along with other materials to help you manage RLS. If you are not a member, we invite you to join now.

RLS can occur in people of any age, including children. Research suggests that RLS affects an estimated 1.5 million children and adolescents in the United States.

While RLS is most often diagnosed in middle-aged individuals, adults can usually trace their symptoms back to childhood and often remember hearing things like "those are growing pains" or "quit wiggling so much." Evidence connecting RLS and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is growing. For more information, see Children and RLS.

Each medication carries a risk of side effects. For details on specific side effects, it is best to discuss your prescription options with your physician. When discussing with your physician, referring to the Foundation’s RLS Medical Bulletin: A Publication for Healthcare Providers may be helpful. This resource is available to Foundation members in the Member Portal along with other materials to help you manage RLS. If you are not a member, we invite you to join now.

Please visit Get Support for a list of support groups and support contacts in your area. If there is no support group in your area, join one of our weekly virtual support group meetings! Find online support by registering for our Discussion Board, a forum that allows you to post your own experience and read through previously posted discussions from members worldwide.

Sign up for our free monthly newsletter, eFriends, to stay up-to-date on Foundation activities and the latest sleep-related articles.

We have a library of materials available for both you and your healthcare provider. For a complete list of publications, browse our Member Portal.

Our membership has an annual fee of $40, ensuring you have the latest news and resources on advances and treatments. Plus, your membership fee will support research for a cure. The membership includes:

• Access to all (30+) publications on RLS
• A subscription to our quarterly magazine, NightWalkers
• A copy of our comprehensive Medical Bulletin
• Access to all monthly webinars
• A medical alert card
• Special accommodations travel card
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