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Restless Legs? You may have Vein Disease.

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May 2, 2023

Reviewed by Dr. Kenneth Harper, MD

 

When restless legs keep you from a good night’s sleep, it impacts every area of your life. As your symptoms get worse, they can leave you with little hope that things can be better. If you find yourself in this situation, this article is for you.

Millions of Americans like you suffer from Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) and many of you may have underlying vein disease. Recent reports suggest that some restless leg symptoms may originate from underlying vein problems. In those situations if you do nothing things will get worse. But there is hope that treating your veins could help with your RLS. If you are looking for an answer, desire to get back to the things you enjoy in life, and especially a restful night’s sleep, keep reading.

 

Why Tell This Story?

At the recent American Vein and Lymphatic Society meeting one of our keynote speakers was Dr. Raphael, a Board Certified Neurologist who practices in Florida. He shared the story of his years of treating his own patients with restless legs with less-than-optimum results. And then he was diagnosed with RLS and how it impacted his quality of life. After the best treatment available he like many with restless legs had minimal improvement in his symptoms. By chance, someone suggested that he have his veins checked. To his surprise, he had underlying vein problems with no outward signs of varicose veins or spider veins. Amazingly, after his unhealthy veins were treated, his RSL resolved and he is no longer on medicine for restless legs and enjoys life to the fullest.

Dr. Raphael is now a champion for patients with RLS to have their vein disease evaluated and treated. He challenged each of us to share his story so others might benefit as he has.

I was encouraged by his story and similar VSS stories where we make a difference in the lives of patients with restless legs and vein disease, many of whom have lost hope that they could be better. It is my desire that sharing his story makes a difference in your life.

In this article, we will explore restless legs and the causes of leg swelling and pain, and how we were able to help Renae here at Vein Specialists of the South.

BETTER VEINS.
BETTER LIFE.® PLAN

It’s just 3 easy steps…

Vein Specialists of the South Macon

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION

Vein Specialists of the South Macon

HAVE YOUR LEGS EVALUATED

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ENJOY BETTER LOOKING BETTER FEELING LEGS

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION

HAVE YOUR LEGS EVALUATED

ENJOY BETTER LOOKING BETTER FEELING LEGS

What are Restless Legs and What Causes Restless Leg Syndrome?

RLS is a condition characterized by an irresistible urge to move your leg muscles while sitting or lying down or resting. It often leads to disruptive symptoms that can lead to sleep issues, fatigue, and poor quality of life.

While the exact cause of RLS is still unknown, it’s believed to be related to a nervous system disorder, resulting in abnormal brain activity. However, there is new evidence to suggest that vein problems can be linked to RLS, too. With unhealthy veins the venous pools in your leg veins which can lead to symptoms of restless legs along with leg pain, aching, and swelling.

Evaluation of Restless Legs and Varicose Veins

If you have restless legs, the evaluation involves a multidisciplinary approach and should include a vein consultation. The first goal of an office-based vein consultation first is to determine if there is underlying vein disease and if it may be contributing to your RLS; based on symptoms, physical exam, duplex ultrasound of the deep and superficial venous system, and other tests as deemed appropriate. The second goal is to develop a customized approach to your care based on your evaluation. This approach often includes lifestyle changes and treatment options which are discussed below.

Lifestyle Changes to Achieve Better Veins for Life®

If vein disease is diagnosed during your evaluation, we will likely begin with a conservative care plan. The conservative care plan includes lifestyle changes such as wearing compression socks, beginning an exercise routine, leg elevation, healthy weight management, and more. If these conservative measures help with your RLS symptoms, you should continue with them and consider any recommended procedures to treat your unhealthy veins.

Walk-In, Walk-Out® Procedures, With Little to No Downtime

At Vein Specialists of the South, we offer a wide range of minimally invasive procedures to treat varicose vein disease in our Georgia vein clinics. Our team of experienced vein specialists will assess your veins and determine the best plan of care for you to help you achieve your goals including endovenous therapy, sclerotherapy, and ambulatory phlebectomy.

Your treatments are designed to treat your ‘bad’ veins and leave the ‘good’ veins. As your healthy veins take over, your venous circulation improves along with your restless legs and venous disease symptoms. And after your treatment, you’ll enjoy that you can walk in and walk out with little to no downtime.

Vein Specialists of the South Macon

PATIENT REVIEWS

*Individual Results May Vary

5/5
Vein Specialists of the South Macon

Why Choose Vein Specialists of the South for Your Vein Care in Georgia?

At Vein Specialists of the South, our mission is to partner with you to enjoy Better Veins for Life®. We enhance lives by offering personalized vein care that caters to your specific needs delivered with ‘WOW’ service.

VSS has been treating patients like you with venous disease using minimally invasive methods since 1997. Situated in historic downtown Macon, Georgia, and with offices in Warner Robins and Locust Grove, Georgia, we are conveniently located in central Georgia, the South Atlanta Corridor, and about 40 minutes south of the Atlanta Airport. We were the first dedicated vein specialists in this area, and we utilize advanced technology while maintaining a professional and personable approach. Vein Specialists of the South promises to prioritize your needs and exceed your expectations with our attentive care.

Schedule an Appointment With Georgia’s Vein Specialists

If you’re experiencing restless legs, aching, pain, or swelling due to venous disease, contact Vein Specialists of the South in Georgia. Our experienced team of specialists looks forward to helping you find relief and improve your quality of life.

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