Who is most prone to get restless legs syndrome?

People at increased risk of developing RLS include those who:

- Are women: Women are more likely to have RLS than men, and symptoms often begin or worsen during pregnancy.

- Are older: RLS becomes more common with age.

- Have a family history: RLS appears to run in families, suggesting a possible genetic component.

- Have iron deficiency: Low levels of iron can sometimes contribute to RLS.

- Have other medical conditions: RLS is sometimes associated with diabetes, kidney failure, Parkinson's disease and peripheral neuropathy.

- Use or stop using certain medications: Some drugs — including antidepressants, antipsychotics, antihistamines and certain medications used to treat nausea and vomiting — can worsen RLS symptoms. Suddenly stopping use of certain drugs used for sleep or anxiety may also be associated with RLS.

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