Restless Leg Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

1. Restless Leg Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

2. What Is Restless Leg Syndrome? Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), also known as Willis-Ekbom disease (WED), is a common neurological disorder. This condition involves the overwhelming urge to move the legs and, sometimes, other areas of the body. Those with RLS can also experience unpleasant or unusual sensations in the affected areas. Symptoms often intensify at night, making it difficult to sleep. RLS affects about 7 to 8 percent of the U.S. population. For most, there is no cure. However, the condition may be temporary when developed during pregnancy. 

3. Restless Leg Syndrome Symptoms With any potential health issue, it is vital to be on the lookout for signs and symptoms. The same goes for Restless Leg Syndrome. Whenever you notice something unusual, don’t hesitate to bring it to the attention of your doctor for an accurate diagnosis. • Irresistible urges to move your legs • Urges that intensify the longer you sit or lay still • Uncomfortable sensations in your legs like tingling, throbbing or itching • Limb twitches • Leg issues that get worse in the evening or at night • General restlessness  • Fatigue due to lack of sleep

4. Causes Of Restless Leg Syndrome • Pregnancy • Anemia • Low iron levels • Kidney disease • Heart disease • High blood pressure • Peripheral neuropathy • Lack of exercise • Excess caffeine intake • Smoking • Drinking too much alcohol • Anxiety • Vein disease

5. How to Treat Restless Leg Syndrome Although you probably can’t eliminate Restless Leg Syndrome, there are some things you can do to improve it. • It may be helpful to: • Move around more • Take short, frequent walks as often as possible • Get up to stretch your legs throughout the day • Stretch your legs in the mornings and evenings • Massage your legs when you are unable to move or stretch

6. While there are no medications specifically developed to treat RLS, there are some that may bring symptomatic relief. Ask your doctor about those that increase dopamine or affect calcium channels, and how they might help. You might also want to consider muscle relaxants, sleeping medications, or opioids to reduce discomfort and help you rest. Finally, don’t forget to review current medications that you take for other conditions with your doctor. Some of these may actually be underlying contributors to RLS. 

7. Restless Leg Syndrome Treatment and Lifestyle Changes Along with self-care and possible medication options, lifestyle changes are key to managing Restless Leg Syndrome. Here’s what we’d like you to try: • Exercise regularly • Manage your stress levels • Quit smoking • Drink less caffeine and alcohol • Seek treatment advice from our experts

8. Restless Leg Syndrome Treatment at USA Vein Clinics If you are experiencing restless legs or any other potential symptoms of vein disease, our vein specialists are available to help. Our nationwide network of clinics offers treatment for restless legs, varicose veins, spider veins, and more. You may be surprised to learn that vein treatment usually takes only 15 to 30 minutes. Plus, our minimally-invasive techniques allow you to immediately return to normal activities. Why suffer any longer? To learn more about vein disease treatment, please contact us at 888.768.3467 or schedule an appointment online. For your safety and convenience during the COVID-19 pandemic, we are now offering telemedicine consultations.