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- What is restless legs syndrome?
- Symptoms of restless legs syndrome
- Causes of restless legs syndrome
- Prevention of restless legs syndrome
- Risk factors for restless legs syndrome
- Complications of restless legs syndrome
- When to see a doctor about restless legs syndrome
- Diagnosis of restless legs syndrome
- Conventional treatment of restless legs syndrome
- Alternative/complementary treatment of restless legs syndrome
- Living with restless legs syndrome
- Caring for someone with restless legs syndrome
Causes of restless legs syndrome
The underlying cause of primary restless legs syndrome is not known, although there is ongoing research to determine the risk factors predisposing a person to this condition.
Some of the current research areas are:
- Neurotransmitter abnormalities - current research is looking into whether abnormalities in the regulation of certain neurotransmitters, such as dopamine cause restless legs syndrome symptoms
- Central nervous system abnormalities - current research also centres on determining if abnormalities in the central nervous system that controls muscles causes restless legs syndrome symptoms to develop
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Secondary restless legs syndrome is thought to be caused (or worsened) by the following:
- Certain medical conditions - studies show that there is a correlation between a number of conditions and development of restless legs syndrome. The conditions most linked with restless legs syndrome are: kidney disease (especially if dialysis is required), diabetes, fibromyalgia, myelitis, nerve disease, rheumatoid arthritis, varicose veins
- Mineral deficiencies - studies show that deficiencies in either iron or magnesium can cause secondary restless legs syndrome to develop
- Peripheral neuropathy - damage to the nerves of the legs and arms is thought to be to one of the main causes of secondary restless legs syndrome
- Vitamin deficiencies - studies show that a deficiency in vitamin B12 can cause secondary restless legs syndrome to develop
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< 2: symptoms 4: prevention > Last reviewed: 29 October 2007 || Last updated: 5 February 2009
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NOTE: Mega doses of any type of vitamin, mineral, amino acid or herbal supplement cannot cure illnesses and in fact can be very dangerous and produce toxic side effects and interfere with medicine you are taking. Always ensure you consult your doctor before taking any type of complementary supplements.
Disclaimer: This guide is not intended to be used for diagnostic or prescriptive purposes. For any treatment or diagnosis of illness, please see your doctor.
