When your legs feel like they’re crawling, tingling, or aching—especially at night—you might be dealing with Willis-Ekbom disease, a neurological disorder that causes an irresistible urge to move the legs, often due to uncomfortable sensations. Also known as restless legs syndrome (RLS), it’s not just restlessness—it’s a real medical condition that affects sleep, mood, and daily life. Around 1 in 10 adults in the U.S. has it, and many don’t even know why their legs won’t stay still.
What causes Willis-Ekbom disease? It’s often tied to how your brain handles dopamine, a brain chemical that controls movement and reward. Low dopamine levels can trigger those creepy-crawly feelings. But it’s also linked to iron deficiency, even when blood tests show normal levels. Iron helps make dopamine, so low iron in the brain—no matter what your blood says—can make RLS worse. That’s why some people feel better after iron supplements, even if they’re not anemic.
It’s not just about legs, either. Some people feel it in their arms. Symptoms get worse at night or during quiet times—like sitting in a movie theater or trying to fall asleep. That’s why people with Willis-Ekbom disease often struggle with insomnia, fatigue, and even depression. It’s not "just stress." It’s a physical problem with a neurological root.
Doctors often start with lifestyle fixes: cutting caffeine, avoiding alcohol, getting regular movement. But for many, that’s not enough. Medications that boost dopamine—like ropinirole or pramipexole—are common. Others use gabapentin or pregabalin, especially if pain is involved. And if iron levels are low, oral or IV iron can make a huge difference.
What you’ll find below are real, practical posts that connect directly to Willis-Ekbom disease and its related issues. You’ll read about how mineral interactions (like iron and calcium) affect medication effectiveness, why certain drugs can make RLS worse, and how to spot when your symptoms might be tied to something deeper—like kidney disease or nerve damage. There’s no fluff. Just clear, science-backed info on what works, what doesn’t, and what your doctor might not tell you.
Restless Legs Syndrome disrupts sleep with irresistible leg urges, often due to dopamine dysfunction. Dopaminergic drugs offer quick relief but carry high risks of worsening symptoms over time. Safer alternatives like pregabalin and iron therapy are now preferred for long-term management.