Although Restless Legs Syndrome is a fairly common medical condition, its exact cause is unknown. Restless Legs Syndrome is a physical condition, which many researchers believe may be related to dopamine. Dopamine is a chemical that carries the signals between nerve cells that control body movement. When the dopamine system does not function properly, it may upset the normal communication of these signals.

There are two forms of Restless Legs Syndrome: primary and secondary.

Primary Restless Legs Syndrome

While the exact cause of primary Restless Legs Syndrome is unknown, patients with primary Restless Legs Syndrome often report having a family member with Restless Legs Syndrome symptoms.

Secondary Restless Legs Syndrome

Restless Legs Syndrome caused by other underlying medical conditions is called secondary Restless Legs Syndrome. It is important for your healthcare provider to rule out causes of secondary Restless Legs Syndrome when evaluating your symptoms.

Conditions that are associated with secondary Restless Legs Syndrome include:

• Iron deficiency
• Renal (kidney) failure
• Pregnancy