Restless legs syndrome (RLS) in men raises the risk of early death. Restless legs syndrome is a condition categorized by irresistible urges to move one’s legs along with feelings of burning, itching, creeping and tugging commonly experienced during sleeping hours.

Study author, Xiang Gao, said, “RLS affects five to 10 percent of adults across the country. Our study highlights the importance of recognizing this common but underdiagnosed disease.”

The study looked at 18,425 men with an average age of 67, free of diabetes, kidney failure and arthritis, all evaluated for restless legs syndrome. In total, 690 men met the criteria for RLS. Information about chronic diseases was collected every two years. During the eight year follow-up, 2,765 participants died. Of the men with RLS, 171 deaths occurred compared to 2,594 of the men without RLS (25 percent versus 15 percent).

The study found that men with restless legs syndrome have a 40 percent greater risk of death compared to men without the condition. After adjusting for other factors which can contribute to death the risk did lower slightly.

Gao concluded, “We found that the increased risk was not associated with the usual known risk factors, such as older age, being overweight, lack of sleep, smoking, being physically inactive and having an unhealthy diet. The increased mortality in RLS was more frequently associated with respiratory disease, endocrine disease, nutritional/metabolic disease and immunological disorders. Through research, we need to pinpoint why and how RLS leads to this possible higher risk of dying early.”

Restless legs syndrome triggers and symptoms

In many cases the cause for restless legs syndrome is unknown. In these situations RLS is known as idiopathic. Research has identified particular genes which are responsible for restless legs syndrome as it has been found to rn in families.

Other causes of restless legs syndrome include a reduction in dopamine levels, and underlying health condition like anemia, chronic health problems like kidney disease and even pregnancy.

Symptoms of restless legs syndrome include an irrisistable urge to move your legs, itchiness, burning sensations, feeling as if there is carbonated water in your veins, and painful cramping.

Triggers of restless legs syndrome include:

• Certain antidepressants
• Antipsychotics
• Lithium which is used in the treatment of bipolar disorder
• Calcium channel blockers
• Certain antihistamines
• Metoclopramide for nausea
• Excessive smoking, drinking alcohol and caffeine
• Being overweight or obese
• Stress
• Lack of exercise

By uncovering your specific triggers you can avoid them as best as possible or make appropriate changes in order to reduce them so that instances of restless legs syndrome become fewer.

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