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Hussain Sharifi
Decoded · free · evidence-based

Why will my legs not stay still at night?

Not a diagnosis: a head start. These are the three drivers most worth checking first, based on what the evidence says gets missed most often.

01

Ferritin, ferritin, ferritin

The single most evidence-backed driver. Specialists treat below 75 even when "normal".

02

Triggers to audit

Caffeine, alcohol, antihistamines and some antidepressants all aggravate it.

03

Evening dopamine dip

Symptoms follow the circadian dopamine curve; that is why nights are worse.

Worth asking your GP about

Ferritin (ask for the number), B12, kidney function

Do this, this week

1. Start a two-minute note so the pattern becomes visible.
2. Take the test list above with you so you can explain the pattern clearly.
3. Read the evidence: Restless Legs Syndrome: Causes, Iron Tests and Treatment.

Start with your question
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Education, not diagnosis, and never a replacement for your GP or pharmacist. Reference ranges and guidance vary; sudden, severe or worsening symptoms need 111, or 999 in an emergency. By Hussain Sharifi · independent, affiliate-free health research.