There’s a common sleep disorder that’s associated with a higher release of adrenaline.

According to researchers at Emory University School of Medicine, that’s what may increase the risk of high blood pressure for patients with this problem.

In a new study, the scientists found that patients with moderate to severe cases of restless legs syndrome (RLS) have a much higher risk of developing hypertension.

Tens of millions of people throughout the world suffer from RLS. In the U.S., it affects about 10% of the population.

RLS is considered a debilitating sleep disorder because it can cause insomnia and sleep disruption. But the symptoms can occur when you’re awake, too.

RLS creates an intense need to move your legs because of tingling, burning, creeping or crawling sensations. It’s these leg movements that are associated with the adrenaline release.

A 50% greater risk of high blood pressure occurred in patients with more than 30 periodic leg movements per hour of sleep.

Older age and a higher body mass index (BMI) also raised the risk of hypertension.

So the researchers believe that treatments for RLS should also try to stop periodic leg movements, especially in patients with a high risk for cardiovascular disease.

If you have RLS, you may want to consult your doctor about these cardiovascular risks.