Restless Legs Syndrome and Related Disorders - Risk Factors

Environmental and Dietary Factors

A number environmental and dietary factors can worsen or provoke RLS:

• Iron deficiencies. People who are deficient in iron are at risk for restless legs syndrome even if they don't have anemia.
• Folic acid or magnesium deficiencies.
• Smoking.
• Alcohol abuse.
• Caffeine. (Coffee drinking is specifically associated with PLMD.)
• Stress.
• Fatigue.
• Prolonged exposure to cold.

Medications

Drugs that worsen or provoke the condition include:

• Antidepressants.
• Antipsychotic drugs.
• Anti-nausea drugs
• Beta blockers.
• Antihistamines.
• Oral decongestants.
• Diuretics.
• Asthma drugs.
• Spinal anesthesia. Anesthesia-induced RLS typically resolves on its own within several months.

Risk Factors for Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD)

About 6% of the population has periodic limb movement disorder; they are usually elderly. As with RLS, a number of conditions may occur with PLMD. They include sleep apnea, spinal cord injuries, stroke, narcolepsy, and degenerative neurologic diseases. Certain medications, including some antidepressants and anti-seizure medications, may also contribute to PLMD.

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