Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) & Vein Health
What is Restless Leg Syndrome?
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a neurological condition that causes an uncontrollable urge to move your legs, especially at night. While it can have multiple causes, vein disease is a common but often overlooked contributor to RLS symptoms.
If you experience tingling, aching, or an irresistible need to move your legs, it’s time to explore whether vein issues could be the underlying cause.
Symptoms of Restless Leg Syndrome
- Uncomfortable leg sensations – Tingling, crawling, throbbing, or itching
- Strong urge to move legs – Usually worse in the evening or at rest
- Symptoms improve with movement – Walking or stretching offers temporary relief
- Nighttime discomfort – Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep due to leg restlessness
- Involuntary leg jerking – Especially during sleep
Many people with RLS also suffer from varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), where poor circulation leads to leg discomfort.
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What Causes Restless Leg Syndrome?
RLS has several possible causes, including:
- Poor Circulation (Venous Insufficiency): When veins struggle to return blood to the heart, leading to pooling and discomfort.
- Iron Deficiency: Low iron levels can contribute to nerve-related symptoms.
- Nerve Disorders: Conditions like peripheral neuropathy may play a role.
- Medications & Lifestyle Factors: Certain drugs, caffeine, and stress can trigger RLS.
Vein disease is a treatable cause of RLS. If you have varicose veins, swelling, or other vein issues, seeking vein treatment may significantly reduce or eliminate your RLS symptoms.
Is Your Restless Leg Syndrome Caused by Vein Issues?
If you experience RLS symptoms along with these signs of vein disease, your veins may be the culprit:
- Visible varicose veins – Bulging, twisted veins in the legs
- Leg swelling & heaviness – Especially at the end of the day
- Aching, throbbing, or burning pain – Worsens with prolonged standing or sitting
- Skin changes – Darkening or irritation near affected veins
Take the Next Step
Try a Simple At-Home Test: Elevate your legs for 15 minutes. If symptoms improve, vein issues could be contributing to your RLS.
Schedule a Vein Screening: A vein specialist can assess your circulation with a non-invasive ultrasound.
Treatment Options for RLS Related to Vein Disease
If vein disease is causing your RLS, treating the underlying issue can drastically improve symptoms and your quality of sleep.
- Compression Therapy – Helps improve circulation & reduce discomfort.
- Sclerotherapy – Minimally invasive injection to close small varicose veins.
- Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT) – Uses laser energy to seal off damaged veins.
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) – Uses heat to close larger diseased veins.
Many patients experience significant relief from RLS after vein treatment!
When to See a UVVC Vein Specialist
You should consider a professional vein evaluation if:
⚠️ Your RLS symptoms disrupt your sleep or daily life.
⚠️ You have visible varicose veins or leg swelling.
⚠️ Your symptoms worsen over time or don’t improve with lifestyle changes.
⚠️ You experience pain, skin changes, or non-healing leg ulcers.