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Can Varicose Veins Cause Restless Leg Syndrome?

Restless Leg Syndrome

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke estimates that 7-10 percent of Americans have restless leg syndrome (RLS). Most people suffer from what is known as primary restless leg syndrome. With primary RLS, there isn’t a known cause, making treatment challenging. If you have varicose veins and restless legs, you might suffer from secondary restless leg syndrome. This is diagnosed when an underlying medical condition, such as varicose veins, causes restless leg syndrome. Learn more about the relationship between varicose veins and restless leg syndrome, and go over your treatment options. 

Varicose Veins and Restless Leg Syndrome – The Connection

Blood and inflammation build up in varicose veins, leading to a wealth of symptoms, including an aching sensation that often gets worse at night. Moving your legs provides some relief, although it only comes in short bursts. Because of that, you might find yourself awake most nights, continuously moving your legs. You are frustrated and tired and need to find long-term relief so you can sleep.

Treating Restless Leg Syndrome Caused by Varicose Veins

People with primary restless leg syndrome are forced to go from one treatment to the next, looking for something that works. If you have secondary restless leg syndrome, though, your vein doctor can treat the source of the problem. Then you can get fast relief and finally sleep at night.

Sclerotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for restless leg syndrome that’s caused by varicose veins. In a recent study, 98 percent of the participants found relief after undergoing this non-surgical treatment. Laser therapy, endovenous procedures, and surgery have also been effective in treating symptoms in patients. 

Get Treatment for Varicose Veins and Restless Leg Syndrome

Dr. Vinay Madan and the Center for Varicose Veins can treat your varicose veins so you can overcome your RLS symptoms. Dr. Madan offers a variety of treatments, including sclerotherapy, radiofrequency ablation (RFA), endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) and Venaseal. Contact the Center for Varicose Veins to schedule an evaluation. Dr. Madan will recommend a treatment plan, and then you can finally get a good night’s sleep. 

Author
Dr. Vinay Madan, MD, DABVLM Dr. Vinay Madan, MD, DABVLM Dr. Vinay Madan is a board certified Interventional Radiologist and Phlebologist with over 25 years of experience in treating vein disease. Dr. Madan has served as the Chairman of Radiology and Section Head of Vascular Interventional Radiology at Eastern Connecticut Health Network. Dr. Madan brings a wealth of knowledge which allows him to treat patients with cosmetic and medical vein disease in a caring and compassionate way.

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