What Is Restless Legs Syndrome & Will Vein Treatment Help?

According to the National Sleep Foundation, about 1 in 10 Americans suffer from Restless Legs Syndrome. Also known as Willis-Ekbom Disease, RLS is a medical condition without a clear cause known. It’s described as an uncomfortable and uncontrolled sensation in the legs that interrupts rest and sleep. Sufferers say the only way to make the sensation stop is to stand and walk around. Many people are frustrated with medicines to treat this condition since they often have unwanted sedative side effects.

While RLS symptoms do appear in the arms and torso, it is most prominent in the legs. It is described as twitching or moving, buzzing or electricity, or a vibration that you can’t control. It can occur during the day, but always occurs at night and is extremely disruptive to a person’s rest and sleep. One of the most distressing aspects of RLS is that you have no control over it and it starts as you begin to relax for sleep. Patients affected by this in its most extreme form are truly exhausted and miserable from lack of sleep.

The exact cause of RLS is not known. Medications help some but often have unwanted sedative side effects. Most patients do not find significant relief.  Exercise may also help, though ultimately there is no known cure. While children are known to suffer from RLS, it most commonly affects older adults, especially women. 

A Link Between RLS and a Vein Condition

What is truly remarkable is the recently observed association between vein reflux and restless leg syndrome. For those who suffer from RLS, the only way to know if a vein condition may be causing RLS is to have a vein reflux ultrasound. About 80% of those who have both a vein condition and Restless Leg Syndrome, about 80% have an improvement in RLS after vein treatment. When a patient’s RLS goes away, it is truly a life-changing event for many who have suffered for years.

For those who suffer from RLS, the only way to know if a vein condition may be causing RLS is to have a vein reflux ultrasound. If you suffer from RLS, contact us for a free vein screening to find out if treatment could stop your suffering. Learn more by reading our informational page on restless leg syndrome or downloading our free ebook below.