If you’ve ever had an irresistible urge to move your legs or have endured uncomfortable sensations in them—typically at night—you may know what it’s like to experience symptoms of a neurological known as restless legs syndrome (RLS), also called Willis-Ekbom disease. These sensations are temporarily relieved by movement but often impede sleep and overall quality of life. While the exact causes of RLS remain unclear, emerging research suggests that genetics plays a major role in developing this condition.
Keep reading as we break down the genetic aspects of RLS, its hereditary patterns, associated risk factors, and what this means regarding diagnosis and treatment.
Are you already interested in alleviating uncomfortable symptoms related to venous health? Reach out to a board-certified Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) physician to discuss the best option for your needs. Our expert team members are proud to guide you with care as you take control of your vascular well-being.
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Uncomfortable leg movements at night characterize RLS—but let’s describe its possible symptoms in greater detail. According to the Cleveland Clinic, between seven and 10 percent of the U.S. population has RLS, with its risk increasing with age. But it’s essential to clarify exactly how RLS can show symptoms. Some specific signs and uncomfortable sensations associated with RLS include:
While these uncomfortable feelings can occur on just one side of the body, they usually affect both legs equally. It’s also important to recognize that the sensations of RLS can vary in severity from mild to debilitating, often worsen when resting, and are temporarily relieved—at least partially—with movement.
However, when RLS is left untreated entirely, it can lead to severe sleep disturbances and significantly impact your quality of life.
While RLS may relate to the functioning of the part of your brain responsible for movement (the basal ganglia) due to the amount of dopamine it receives, several other factors have been linked to RLS. Keep in mind that RLS is often classified as primary (idiopathic) or secondary. Primary RLS is generally believed to have a genetic basis, while secondary RLS can arise from other medical conditions, such as iron deficiency, kidney failure, or pregnancy.
With that said, how might primary (idiopathic) RLS and genetics be connected? Let’s dig deeper.
When breaking down how RLS and genetics may be intertwined, it’s critical to recognize that many primary and secondary cases, such as the environment, have additional contributing factors to consider. This adds a layer of complexity, though there are concrete statistics backing a genetic correlation. According to the National Library of Medicine, the disorder often has a familial pattern:
“The disorder often runs in families: 40 to 90 percent of affected individuals report having at least one affected first-degree relative, such as a parent or sibling, and many families have multiple affected family members. Studies suggest that the early-onset form of the disorder is more likely to run in families than the late-onset form.
In some affected families, restless legs syndrome appears to have an autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance. Autosomal dominant inheritance suggests that one copy of an altered gene in each cell is sufficient to cause the disorder. However, the genetic changes associated with restless legs syndrome in these families have not been identified.” -National Library of Medicine
The bottom line? Regardless of other factors, those with a family history of RLS may have an increased chance of developing the condition.
Genetics may play a role in determining your RLS risk, but as we’ve mentioned, several other environmental and lifestyle factors are also at play. Still, the genetic component of RLS strongly suggests that therapies need to be personalized and that those with a family history of RLS may respond differently to various treatment options.
While vein treatments may not address the neurological component of RLS, they can significantly improve the quality of life for those whose symptoms are related to chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) or an underlying vein condition. How?
CVI, or vein disease, often leads to poor circulation and pooling of blood in the legs because the veins struggle to return blood to the heart. Healthy veins have one-way valves that prevent blood from flowing backward as it moves up the legs, but when CVI onsets, these valves weaken, which means they can't close properly.
Malfunctioning vein valves can cause blood to leak back down into the legs instead of moving upward toward the heart. This leads to blood pooling in the veins of the legs, making them feel heavy, swollen, or generally uncomfortable—all symptoms that coincide with RLS.
For those battling RLS, vein treatments such as sclerotherapy and endovenous laser treatment may increase circulation. This enhanced blood flow and reduced discomfort help to alleviate the condition’s uncomfortable symptoms. Relief also comes in the form of fewer RLS episodes, milder symptoms during episodes, and improved mobility, all of which contribute to increased emotional well-being.
If you’re battling the symptoms of RLS, it’s empowering to know the steps you can take for immediate relief. Start by eliminating caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco from your day-to-day life, as these can worsen RLS symptoms. Increasing your vitamin D3 and potassium intake through healthy foods or supplements can help prevent cramping while increasing bone strength. Consider purchasing a pair of medical-grade compression stockings for daytime use since these are designed to boost blood flow.
RLS is a complex condition with significant genetic components. While environmental factors play a role, ongoing research into the genetic foundation of RLS will continue to enhance our understanding of the disorder and lead to more effective treatments.
If you’re experiencing symptoms that may align with RLS or other signs of vein problems, relief is within reach! Take charge of your venous health and get the compassionate care you’ve been waiting for.
CVR accepts most major insurance plans, including Aetna, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, and Medicare.
Call 240-965-3915 or click here to book your consultation immediately with a board-certified CVR vein expert.
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