Restless Leg Syndrome is a disorder in which an individual feels compelled to move their legs while lying down. This is commonly paired with irritating sensations in the legs. Symptoms are most common during periods of inactivity and can be alleviated momentarily by movement or stimulation. They’re most acute in the evening and midnight hours, causing major disruptions in sleep and everyday life.

Are Varicose Veins Connected To Restless Leg Syndrome?

Despite the fact that RLS has been linked to a variety of medical conditions, numerous scientific studies show that varicose veins might be another source of those bothersome sensations that keep you awake at night. Varicose veins occur when valves in the leg veins can no longer circulate blood back towards the heart, resulting in bulging and twisting veins. As a result, the build-up of blood strains the vein wall and causes varicose veins to emerge in the legs and feet. Varicose veins can produce discomfort and swelling in the legs, all of which are symptoms shared by RLS.

Diagnosing And Treating Restless Legs

If you haven’t yet discovered the underlying cause of your RLS, reach out to us today to determine if it’s a result of venous insufficiency. Not all varicose veins are noticeable to the naked eye, so there may be diseased veins in your legs that aren’t apparent.

Sclerotherapy, a standard treatment for varicose veins that involves injecting a harmless chemical into the damaged vein to seal it up, has been shown to decrease RLS symptoms instantly.

If you do have RLS, there are several treatments you can try at home that might offer relief. Before going to bed, you can try to relax by walking, stretching, and rubbing your legs. These techniques can also prove to be useful in easing the symptoms of varicose veins as well. Caffeine and alcohol consumption should be reduced to improve sleep quality.