• The exact cause is not known
• Family history - it is believed to be hereditary
• Abnormalities in the brain can lead to this condition
• Neurotransmitters (chemicals that help to transmit signal to the brain) abnormalities can cause this problem
• The conditions which are likely to cause restless leg syndrome include
• The iron deficiency anemia
• Peripheral neuropathy - damage to the nerves of limbs due to underlying conditions such as diabetes
• Parkinson's disease
• Varicose veins
• Fibromyalgia
• Hyper- or hypothyroidism (over- or underactive thyroid glands)
• Severe kidney disease and uremia (kidney failure causing build up of toxins within the body)
• Amyloidosis (build-up of a starch-like substance in the body's tissues and organs)
• Lyme disease
• Damage to spinal nerves
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Sjögren syndrome
• Pregnancy

Treatment involves managing the underlying conditions.

Medication

Iron Replacement: Iron replacement is suggested whose fasting serum ferritin levels are < 75 micrograms/litre. Usually recommended when the condition is secondary to iron deficiency anemia.

Ferrous sulphate . Ferric carboxymaltose

Antidepressants: To reduce the symptoms of depression, which may result to disturbed sleep pattern.

Buproprion . Ropinirole . Rotigotine . Pramipexole

Calcium channel regulators: Work for some chronic, persistent cases. Usually recommended in some cases.

Gabapentin . Pregabalin

Narcotic medication: Usually addictive and are used if other drugs do not work. Usually recommended in some cases.

Oxycodone . Hydrocodone

Sedatives: To help sleep better.

Clonazepam . Eszopiclone . Temazepam