Not all conditions that may lead to RLS are disorders. In fact, being pregnant seems to increase not only the incidence but also the degree of RLS symptoms. In a study of 626 pregnant women, only 10 percent had symptoms of RLS prior to becoming pregnant but this increased to 27 percent during pregnancy. It seemed to worsen in the third trimester. The good news is that the symptoms rapidly improved after delivery. It is not clear what causes the increased frequency of RLS during pregnancy. It may be due to iron or folate deficiency or even because of hormonal changes associated with being pregnant.
Secondary Causes of Restless Leg Syndrome
By Brandon Peters, M.D., About.com Guide
Updated June 14, 2010
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board
Previous
- Iron Deficiency
- End-stage Kidney Disease
- Diabetes
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Parkinson's Disease
- Pregnancy
- Rheumatic Disease
- Varicose Veins
- Other Conditions
Suggested Reading
Explore Sleep
- About.com
- Health
- Sleep
- Causes of Sleep Disorders
- Restless Leg Syndrome and Pregnancy - All About Restless Leg Syndrome and Pregnancy
Also from About.com:
©2013 About.com. All rights reserved.
