The Relationship Between Tension-Type Headache Patients With Anemia and Restless-leg Syndrome

Objective: The aim of the study was to investigate the prevalence of restless-leg syndrome (RLS), widespread of the RLS symptoms, effect of sypmtoms and applied therapies in tension-type headache patients with anemia due to iron deficiency and vitamin B12 deficiency. We also examined the effects of ferritin in RLS.Material and methods: We evaluated 56 tension-type headache patients from our headache clinic. In the patient group; 32 patients had iron deficiency, 24 patients had megaloblastic anemia caused by vitamin B12 deficiency. 20 control subjects with tension-type headache were included to the study. Control group subjects did not have anemia. Control and patient group were evaluated according to RLS diagnostic criteria.Results: The prevalence fo RLS was 12.5% in iron deficiency anemia, 8.03% in megaloblastic anemia, 5% in control group, respectively. The incidence of RLS was 7.7% in all patient and control group.Conclusion: RLS is especially seen in female and older age. The alterations in iron metabolism can be a facilitating factor for appearing of RLS.