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Is restless legs dangerous?

The restless legs in itself is uncomfortable but not inherently dangerous.  However, the sleep disruption caused by RLS produces excessive daytime sleepiness which can be dangerous (e.g. driving whilst sleepy).

Is it hereditary?

Yes, RLS runs in families.  Up to 90% of people with RLS have a first-degree relative also with RLS.

Is magnesium effective?

Some people report that magnesium helps them with their restless legs.  However, there isn't a lot of research done in magnesium and evidence is more anecdotal than clinical.  See "Magnesium" section for more information.

Can caffeine worsen RLS?

Yes, caffeine can potentially worsen RLS.  Caffeine is a stimulant causing neuronal activation and increased difficulties falling asleep which leads to worsening RLS.  It is recommended to have your last coffee at 12PM.

Which medications make RLS worse?

A number of common medications including antihistamines, antidepressants (like SSRIs/SNRIs), antipsychotics, beta blockers and lithium are also known to cause / worsen RLS.  For a detailed review of medications causing RLS see "Medications that worsen RLS" page.

Should I have my iron checked?

If you suspect that you have RLS or are seeing a Dr about RLS then yes you should absolutely have your iron checked.  See the "Iron" section for more information.  Also if you have symptoms like unexplained fatigue, weakness, dizziness, shortness of breath, pale skin, poor concentration it is recommended to do an iron studies test.

Should I see a doctor about restless legs?

If your restless legs are causing you anxiety / stress / distress or symptoms of sleepiness during the day than you should make an appointment with your GP.  To find out whether you might have clinically significant RLS or not see the "Do I have RLS?" section.

Why do my legs feel restless at night?

There is no one reason as to why RLS occurs at night.  Low iron levels, dopamine dysregulation, glutamate activation are all biological factors that can worsen RLS.  As to why they occur at night is primarily due to the intrinsic circadian rhythm (body clock).  See the "Causes" section for more information.

How do I stop restless legs at night?

It is difficult to completely stop the restless legs at night.  However, there are certain strategies you can employ to minimise the "creepy", "crawly" sensations and the urge to move the legs.  Walking it off, doing squats, stretching exercises, a hot bath, massaging the legs, heat and ice packs are all strategies used to help with RLS.. See the  "Getting relief" page for more information.

Best treatment for restless legs syndrome

Treatments for RLS can be divided into 2 categories. (1) Treating the acute restless legs at night. (2) Treating the long-term presence of RLS.  There is no one best treatment for everyone.  Treatment for RLS is a lot of trial and error.  Nonpharmacological treatments to try are on the "Getting relief" page.  Available pharmacological treatments are discussed on the "Treatments" page.

Are there medications for restless legs?

Yes, there are a number of medications to treat RLS.  For a comprehensive list of medication see the "Treatments" page.

How is restless legs syndrome diagnosed?

There is no blood test or indeed any other physical test for the RLS.  Diagnosis is made on clinical description of your symptoms.  For diagnostic criteria see the "Diagnosis" section in the overview page.

What causes restless legs?

Commonly there is no known cause for RLS.  Low iron, dopamine and elevated Glutamate are primary factors worsening RLS.  For more information see the "Causes" of RLS page. 

No, there is no cure for RLS.  Symptoms can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes.

Can RLS be cured?

What does restless legs syndrome feel like?

FAQ

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) leg sensations feel different for different people.  Typically they are described as:

  • Tingling or "pins and needles"

  • Pulling or tugging

  • Aching or throbbing

  • Crawling insects under the skin

  • Electric shocks

  • Prickly or painful

  • Itching

Is it normal to have twitching legs at night?

No it's not normal to have twitching legs at night.  If while you are awake you move your legs to release a uncomfortable feeling in the legs then you may have the restless legs syndrome.  If the leg twitching occurs while you are sleeping you may have periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD).

How to get rid of restless legs

It is difficult to completely stop the restless legs at night.  However, there are certain strategies you can employ to minimise the "creepy", "crawly" sensations and the urge to move the legs.  Walking it off, doing squats, stretching exercises, a hot bath, massaging the legs, heat and ice packs. See the  "Getting relief" page for more information.  For long term treatments medications can help (see the "Treatment" page).

Home remedies for restless legs syndrome

Home remedies include, walking, doing squats, stretching exercises, a hot bath, massaging the legs, heat and ice packs.

Does iron deficiency cause restless legs?

Yes, iron deficiency is a major causal factor in the restless legs syndrome.  For more information see the "Iron" section in the "Causes" page.

Lifestyle changes to stop RLS

There are a number of lifestyle changes that can help the restless leg syndrome (RLS).

  • Daily moderate exercise

  • Cut down or give up smoking.

  • Don't have caffeinated beverages after 12PM.

  • Don't drink alcohol.

  • A healthy diet (see the "Prevention" page).

  • Good sleep habits.

Can Pregnancy cause RLS?

Yes, pregnancy can cause RLS usually in the third trimester.  The good news is that after delivery the RLS should subside.

Last reviewed 06/08/2026

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