Why do my legs feel restless at night?

If your legs demand movement the moment you lie down - creeping, crawling, tingling, or aching feelings that only moving relieves - that is restless legs syndrome, a recognised condition, not a quirk. The NHS describes it as a strong urge to move your legs, usually when resting at night, and MedlinePlus notes the discomfort shows up when lying down or sitting and that moving brings relief. The causes worth knowing: RLS is thought to be linked to iron levels and the brain chemical dopamine; it runs in families; and it can tag along with pregnancy and other conditions. The practical levers are in your evenings. The NHS self-care list: no caffeine after midday, no alcohol for at least 2 hours before bed, no big meals or strenuous exercise late at night, and no electronic screens right before sleep. Gentle daytime exercise and a regular sleep time help, and distracting your brain with a puzzle or book can carry you through mild evenings. If iron is low, treating that deficiency can reduce symptoms - another reason to get levels checked rather than guessing. The see-a-GP line: when you have tried the self-help measures and they have not helped, or symptoms are wrecking your sleep most nights. Medicines exist for stubborn cases, but the iron and habit checks come first. Pymander is a free AI doctor, 24/7 by text, that can help you review your evening pattern.