Are you up at night with restless legs? Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a nervous system disorder that affects 10 percent of the U.S. population. It causes several uncomfortable symptoms in the legs at night, including:
- Feelings of itchiness, crawling, pulling, or aching
- The uncontrollable need to move your legs
- Tingling and sleep disruptions
These conditions can severely affect a person’s sleep. It can be linked to chronic diseases such as iron deficiency, Parkinson’s, diabetes, and others. Medications, pregnancy, and lifestyle choices can cause this condition, and there are genetic factors as well.
Varicose and spider veins also might contribute to RLS. Many of the symptoms of RLS are similar to underlying vein issues, so the two conditions are often confused because many people struggle with vein issues before visible varicose vein bulges or spider vein bundles appear.
Restless Leg Syndrome can be very disruptive to your life. It can severely affect your sleep and overall health, depending on the severity of your condition. It can also disrupt your partner’s rest. Treatments for restless leg syndrome include:
- Prescription medication
- Diet and lifestyle changes
- Reducing your alcohol and caffeine intake
- Improving your sleep habits
- Exercising
- Foot wraps or compression stockings
Vein treatments may also help. A recent study reported by The Sleep Foundation found that 98 percent of RLS patients who received non-surgical sclerotherapy treatment for varicose veins also found relief for their RLS symptoms. This study shows the promising link between vein treatments and assistance from RLS symptoms.
At our clinic, we offer a variety of treatments for varicose and spider veins, including sclerotherapy. If you are unfamiliar with this treatment, let us tell you a little about it. Sclerotherapy involves a series of injections of a salt solution into the affected veins. The injections cause an inflammatory reaction, so your veins may look worse for a few days, but then the solution will begin to dissolve and your veins will heal. After a few sessions, the problematic veins will disappear. It may take a few months of treatments, usually spaced a month apart. If you think this treatment may help your spider or varicose veins, call us today. It may even help your RLS, too!
RLS is a serious condition that can affect your daily life, just like vein issues. We want to make sure that our patients are living their best lives, and our treatments may help. Book a consultation today and start feeling your best.