It is estimated that around ten percent of the population suffers from restless leg syndrome (RLS) per year in the U.S. It can affect anyone, regardless of age, although women are more likely to experience RLS than men, and it’s more common in middle-aged women or older. In fact, nearly a quarter of women develop the disease during pregnancy, but symptoms frequently go away after giving birth.
Restless leg syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by an irresistible urge to move the legs, and sometimes other parts of the body. There are often unusual or unpleasant sensations that are described as tingly, creepy-crawly, tugging, throbbing, or pulling, which accompany these impulses. Additionally, many people experience periodic limb movement disorder or jerking of the arms or legs. These periodic leg movements typically occur in the evening and can severely disrupt sleep and reduce quality of life.
It has not yet been discovered what causes restless leg syndrome, nor a cure, but certain risk factors have been identified and many treatments exist for controlling its symptoms. Anemia, dialysis, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and damage to the nerves in hands and feet such as peripheral neuropathy from diabetes have all been associated with restless leg syndrome.
To help decrease the symptoms, certain lifestyle changes such as reducing caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol, while increasing regular exercise and healthy sleep may help. In addition, some people may find relief from a hot bath or shower, heating pads or leg massages.
However, according to the National Sleep Foundation, 98% of patients affected by RLS in a recent study found symptom relief after treating varicose veins in their legs with non-surgical sclerotherapy. They add, “Many physicians believe that it is the underlying vein problems that are causing the Restless Leg Syndrome, and by treating this with an outpatient procedure, patients can get relief.”
To find out more about restless leg syndrome relief, it’s important to consult a doctor who is an expert in the treatment of the disease. At the Goldman Vein Institute, you can schedule an appointment with one of our doctors, and begin to experience an alleviation of your discomfort today.
If you would like more information on restless leg syndrome treatment, please contact the Goldman Vein Institute today at one of our two convenient locations:
Jupiter 561-625-9853 or Wellington 561-790-4550 or visit us at www.goldmanveininstitute.com.
At the Goldman Vein Institute, our mission is to provide our patients with comprehensive care for varicose veins, spider veins, and other conditions caused by venous insufficiency. Our highly-qualified and experienced, board-certified vein specialists, Dr. Goldman and Dr. Varghese-Goldman, combine their extensive knowledge and experience, with the latest innovations in vein treatments.
With our offices in Jupiter and Wellington Florida, the Goldman Vein Institute serves patients from Stuart, Hobe Sound, Tequesta, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, North Palm Beach, West Palm Beach, Loxahatchee, Royal Palm Beach, Wellington, Hialeah, Sunny Isles, Bay Harbor, Bal Harbour, Miami Beach, Aventura, Surfside, Hallandale, and Hollywood, and we welcome patients across South Florida to visit our state-of-the-art vein centers, where we provide the latest in vein treatment technology.
