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Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a condition characterized by unpleasant sensations in the legs temporarily relieved by moving around. The cause of RLS still remains a mystery to most medical professionals, but many conditions have been associated with it. Recent medical research shows that varicose veins and venous insufficiency are linked to RLS.
Restless Leg Syndrome occurs mostly at night and is characterized by throbbing, unpleasant sensations in the legs, with an uncontrollable urge to move them. From this stems the irresistible urge to move legs in the middle of sleep or during relaxation. Burning, aching and tingling are just a few of the symptoms which can keep the affected individual from a good night’s sleep.
Varicose veins and other venous insufficiencies have been linked to RLS cases. Many people with RLS are unaware that they had varicose veins let alone that they can easily be treated. Varicose veins are swollen, bulging veins that are sometimes raised on the skin’s surface, and may appear blue or purple in color. They are most commonly found on the legs. They develop due to incorrect blood flow in veins that carry blood back to the heart. When this fails, blood flows backwards in the veins and can cause them to pool, increasing pressure in the vein. This increase in pressure results in the veins bulging visibly into the skins surface.
Patients often have difficulty in distinguishing the difference between RLS and symptomatic varicose veins. It is simple to notice discoloration in the veins of the legs, especially if there are unpleasant symptoms that bring your attention to your legs.
According to MedicineNet, a leading online medical reference, the incidence and severity of restless leg syndrome increases with age, although it can occur at any time. As with venous disorders like varicose veins, RLS is much more common in women than it is in men. The links between both venous insufficiency and RLS are numerous, but a definitive cause and connection has yet to be made.
Treatment of restless leg syndrome is first directed at the presence of venous insufficiency. If varicose veins are thought to be the cause, treating them can cure the symptoms of RLS.
At the St. Louis Laser Vein Center, Dr. Wright specializes in treating varicose veins with non-surgical, minimally invasive procedures. Varicose veins can be treated with extremely effective procedures like ultrasound guided foam sclerotherapy and endolaser vein removal. These treatment options offer patients relief from varicose veins without downtime.
What results will I get after treatment and will it correct RLS?
Medical research has shown that the treatment of venous insufficiency can cure symptoms of RLS. In patients with RLS who were treated for venous insufficiency, 98 percent reported relief of their symptoms.
People with symptoms of RLS should have their legs evaluated at the St. Louis Laser Vein Center for venous insufficiency. Pain-free ultrasound testing will detect any vein issues and Dr. Wright will determine the best options for relief of symptoms.
The exact cause of your RLS may be unknown, but the symptoms can be treated so that you can live a live free from unpleasant sensations in your legs. Symptoms such as burning, discomfort, and fatigue can be eliminated completely. Any associated venous insufficiency can also be easily treated.
For more information about your case of restless leg syndrome, make an appointment with Dr. Wright at the St. Louis Laser Vein Center.
