Vein Disease and Restless Leg Syndrome: Understanding the Connection
Vein disease can sometimes be mistaken for restless leg syndrome (RLS) because the two share many similar symptoms—leg aches, swelling, throbbing, heaviness, and an uncomfortable or restless feeling, particularly at night. In many cases, RLS symptoms are actually caused by an underlying venous condition, such as chronic venous insufficiency. Treating the vein disease—the often hidden source of discomfort—can significantly reduce or even resolve RLS symptoms. RLS affects roughly 7% to 10% of the U.S. population, leaving many people struggling to sleep each night.
How Vein Disease Contributes to RLS
- Faulty valves: In vein disease, valves in the leg veins fail to function properly, allowing blood to pool and flow backward.
- Fluid buildup: This pooling can cause swelling (edema) that often worsens during the day and may trigger the “creeping” sensations associated with RLS.
- Discomfort: Pressure and poor circulation from vein disease create painful, uncomfortable sensations that make people feel compelled to move their legs.
Is It Serious?
RLS isn’t dangerous, but it can seriously affect sleep and quality of life. People experiencing RLS should be evaluated for varicose veins. Many symptoms of varicose veins closely resemble those of RLS, highlighting a possible connection between the two conditions. Additionally, varicose veins may form deep within the legs and remain hidden, even when symptoms are present. In such cases, patients may assume they have RLS, when the underlying cause is actually venous insufficiency.The good news is: most cases improve once the underlying cause is treated.
What You Can Do
- See a doctor: If you have RLS symptoms, get evaluated for venous insufficiency with a qualified doctor who always evalutates vein disease with a diagnostic ultrasound.
- Treat the vein disease: Addressing the underlying venous condition can greatly improve or even eliminate RLS symptoms.
- Consider lifestyle and treatment options: Treatment may include minimally invasive procedures like radiofrequency ablation, Venaseal, Varithena, compression stockings, and lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and leg elevation.
Treatment of Varicose Veins
For those living with RLS, a thorough vein evaluation can reveal whether venous insufficiency is contributing to their symptoms. At Athen’s Vein & Aesthetics our team is led by board certified surgeon Chris E. Malone, MD, FACS and he uses the most advanced technology to diagnose and treat varicose veins. He treats the underlying cause of vein disease rather than simply addressing the symptoms. Call 706-850-3444 and schedule a vein screening today and take the first step toward restful, uninterrupted sleep.
