What is Restless Leg Syndrome?
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is the term used to describe the overwhelming need to regularly move one’s legs to relieve uncomfortable or painful sensations in the legs.
It’s often caused by a combination of insufficient blood flow in the veins, and by pressure on specific nerves in the legs. The resulting tingling or pricking sensation is often referred to as “pins and needles.”
It generally resolves itself once the pressure is removed, although it may also require that the limb be massaged for several minutes before fully subsiding. RLS may also be caused by neurological problems or an iron deficiency and can be exacerbated by various prescription medications.
RLS is more likely to occur while sitting or sleeping, is more likely to occur late in the day or at night, and is twice as common among women. You’re more likely to develop RLS as you age, and also if you have family members who also suffer from RLS.
Similarities with Varicose Veins
Varicose veins occur when poor blood circulation results in damage both to the valves that normally regulate blood flow and the walls of the veins themselves. Varicose veins become a cosmetic problem when the walls of the veins become twisted, discolored and enlarged. They are often also painful and have the potential to cause moderate or significant health problems if blood starts to pool inside twisted sections of the veins.
Varicose veins can also cause a range of other symptoms, including swollen, inflamed, or itchy skin, dull pain that gets progressively worse during the day, muscle cramps at night, and the urge to move one’s legs when trying to sleep.
Several of these symptoms are quite similar to those associated with RLS, and in fact, many varicose vein sufferers also experience the symptoms of Restless Leg Syndrome. It transpires that the causes of both conditions are closely related. Although not all RLS sufferers also have varicose veins, in many cases, RLS may actually be caused by varicose veins.
Varicose Vein Treatment Options for RLS?
Although the fact that varicose veins and RLS often occur together does not automatically imply that treating varicose veins will resolve RLS symptoms, recent research has demonstrated that this is, in fact, often the case.
You should first consult a qualified doctor to establish if your RLS is related to blood flow problems – this may require a comprehensive medical checkup to establish the real cause.
In cases where RLS is related to varicose veins, we recommend seriously looking at available non-invasive or minimally-invasive varicose vein treatment options, including Sclerotherapy and laser vein therapy. These will allow you to relieve the underlying cause of your RLS, while also treating your varicose vein symptoms, and preventing them from worsening and creating more serious problems in the future.
In cases where RLS is not related to blood circulation, there are other treatment options, ranging from increasing iron consumption, applying hot or cold compresses, and the use of various medications.
Regardless of the severity of your symptoms, we strongly recommend investigating the cause, especially as you may be able to avoid more painful or serious problems in the future by treating the underlying causes today.
Los Angeles Vein Treatment from Your Laser Skin Care
Your Laser Skin Care can provide you with a full range of services, including a complete diagnosis of the cause of your RLS and varicose veins. We can advise on the best ways to treat both conditions.
We have extensive experience providing both laser vein therapy and Sclerotherapy treatments. Call us at (323) 525-1516 to schedule a free consultation.
