Restless Legs Syndrome and Related Disorders - Causes

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Neuropathy. Some experts suggest that RLS, particularly if it occurs in older adults, may be a form of neuropathy, which is an abnormality in the nervous system outside the spine and brain. Nevertheless, there is no evidence of a causal relationship.

Deficiencies in Iron Metabolism

Iron deficiency, even at a level too mild to cause anemia, has been linked to RLS in some people. Studies suggest, in fact, that RLS in some people may be due to impaired iron acquisition in cells that regulate dopamine in the brain. (Dopamine abnormalities are known to play a role in RLS.) Some studies have reported RLS in 25 - 30% of people with low iron levels. (In fact, the common connection between RLS and Parkinson's disease may derive from iron deficiencies in these patients.)

Causes of Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD)

The cause or causes of PLMD are not clear. Some research suggests that it may be due to abnormalities in the autonomic nervous system, which regulates the involuntary actions of the smooth muscles, heart, and glands.

Review Date: 10/18/2006
Reviewed By: Harvey Simon, M.D., Editor-in-Chief, Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital