Symptom 9. Restless Legs Syndrome: Anemia’s Uncomfortable Connection
One lesser-known symptom of anemia is Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). It’s a neurological disorder characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move your legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations like itching, crawling, or throbbing.
Iron deficiency, a common cause of anemia, can lead to RLS. Your brain needs iron to produce dopamine, a neurotransmitter that regulates muscle movement. When iron levels are low, dopamine production decreases, leading to symptoms of RLS.
RLS can have a significant impact on your quality of life. The symptoms are typically worse during the night, leading to disrupted sleep and subsequent daytime fatigue. It can also affect your ability to sit for extended periods, such as during travel or work meetings.
While RLS can be quite frustrating, the silver lining is that treating the underlying iron deficiency often provides relief from symptoms. (9)
