Restless leg syndrome affects millions of adults worldwide. It is estimated that roughly 10% of the U.S. population is impacted by restless leg syndromes. Many different theories have been put forward about what causes restless leg syndrome. Some of those theories have been ruled out, while many more have credibility. Several different factors may likely result in restless leg symptoms. In many cases, however, venous insufficiency is linked to symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
Restless leg syndrome, also known as Willis-Ekbom Disease, is a disorder that causes unpleasant physical sensations in the legs. These sensations give patients an irresistible urge to move their legs, hence the name “restless leg syndrome.”
Patients describe the sensations as throbbing, tingling, itching, crawling, or simply aching. The symptoms most commonly occur after periods of long inactivity and are especially prominent at night. As a result, restless leg syndrome is commonly regarded as a type of sleep disorder, as it affects most individuals while they are trying to sleep.
There is no single, definitive answer as to what causes restless leg syndrome. Several conditions have been strongly linked to restless leg syndrome, however. These include hypothyroidism, fibromyalgia, anemia, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and varicose veins. Women who are pregnant may also experience restless leg syndrome symptoms. Additionally, certain medications, namely antidepressants and antipsychotic drugs, have been associated with restless leg syndrome.
In addition to medications, other substances have been known to exacerbate symptoms of restless leg syndrome. Alcohol and caffeine consumption are both commonly linked to cases of restless leg syndrome.
In some cases, restless leg syndrome has been found to be genetic. Individuals whose family members have suffered from restless leg syndrome may be at greater risk of experiencing symptoms.
There are several potential treatment options available for patients suffering from restless leg syndrome. In mild to moderate cases, lifestyle changes can effectively alleviate all symptoms. A moderate exercise routine, massaging the legs, or relaxing the legs with heat or ice at night have all been used as effective treatment methods.
In other cases, doctors will recommend changes in medication or reduced consumption of caffeine or alcohol.
However, in more severe cases or when other treatment options are ineffective, medical treatment options are also available. Vein treatment in particular has been found to effectively treat severe or chronic cases of restless leg syndrome. While there is no single clear cause of restless leg syndrome, many cases are believed to be linked to venous insufficiency. Namely, varicose veins are strongly linked to cases of restless leg syndrome.
Varicose veins are veins that become twisted or enlarged, typically found in the legs. Varicose veins often cause pressure in the legs and decrease blood circulation from the legs. While not life-threatening, this condition is often highly uncomfortable. That discomfort is manifested in some ways, including the potential development of restless leg syndrome. Therefore, individuals experiencing restless leg syndrome symptoms may be suffering from varicose veins. While varicose veins are often visible on the surface, this is not always the case.
Luckily, there are a wide variety of treatment options available to treat varicose veins and associated restless leg syndrome symptoms. These treatment options range from physical therapy to surgical procedures. Rather than only treating restless leg syndrome symptoms, vein treatment targets the underlying cause of RLS. This often results in a much better quality of life for patients after undergoing successful treatment.
If you are experiencing restless leg syndrome associated with varicose veins, consider scheduling a consultation with BASS Vein Center.
Vein surgery can be life changing for many people and a huge boost of confidence, let's get you scheduled for a consultation.
