Vein disease is one of the most common conditions affecting our health, touching millions of Americans each year. In fact, nearly 40 percent of women and 20 percent of men will develop significant vein disorders by the time they reach the age of 50.
If you or a loved one suffers from vein disease or restless legs syndrome, Carolina Vein Specialists are here to help you diagnose your condition, treat your symptoms and improve your quality of life through an effective treatment plan.
What is restless legs syndrome?
Do your legs regularly feel uncomfortable or do they have an intense need to move around while lying in bed? This condition, known as restless legs syndrome or RLS, is extremely frustrating and may cause significant sleep problems. RLS is the culprit for burning, itching and tingling sensations in the legs while lying down.
What is the connection between vein disease and RLS?
Did you know that approximately 22 percent of patients with RLS also suffer from vein disease? If vein disease is the cause of your RLS symptoms, there are treatments that can help, depending on your specific condition.
When you compare the symptoms of RLS, varicose veins and venous insufficiency, you’ll notice they have many similarities. Chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins can actually be the cause of RLS. Many people who visit their doctor for RLS are surprised when they are examined for vein disease. It’s very common for people suffering from RLS to have an underlying vein condition that must be diagnosed and treated in order to relieve the uncomfortable symptoms they’re experiencing.
Signs and symptoms of vein disease and RLS
Leg symptoms for vein disease and RLS are often quite similar. These include:
- Aches or pain
- Itchiness
- Leg/ankle swelling or throbbing
- Leg heaviness
- Muscle cramps
- Restlessness of the legs
Before experimenting with medication to treat the symptoms of RLS, it’s important to have your legs evaluated for vein disease first. You could have a vein disorder that’s causing a disruptive secondary condition like restless legs syndrome. Contact Carolina Vein Specialists at 336-218-8346 to request a vein evaluation. If you have heavy legs, achy legs, swelling, itching, cramping or restless legs when you sleep, we can help alleviate your discomfort, improve your quality of sleep, and get you back to the life you love.