If you have been diagnosed with restless leg syndrome (RLS), varicose vein therapy might be just what you need to alleviate that lower limb discomfort. Here is everything you need to know about the initial diagnosis and the current treatments available.
What is restless leg syndrome (RLS)?
RLS is an irresistible urge to move one’s legs to stop uncomfortable or odd sensations. It affects 10-15 percent of Americans.
What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are the blue, ropy veins that are enlarged and have lost their ability to effectively transport blood back to the heart due to venous insufficiency.
What is their relationship?
Venous insufficiency can lead to a buildup of pressure in the legs, which can cause aching, throbbing, cramping, fatigue and symptoms of RLS.
What treatments are available?
Currently, RLS is treated with medication. However, recent studies have shown that venous insufficiency should be ruled out using diagnostic imaging. If unhealthy veins are found, varicose vein therapy should be administered:
- Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) — Using the CoolTouch CTEV™ Laser System, a laser fiber is inserted into the vein, sealing it shut. The procedure typically takes 45 minutes and offers the most comfortable laser treatment available with rapid relief of symptoms.
- Ambulatory Phlebectomy — This is a micro-extraction of bulging veins through very small incisions with no stitches and no scarring. This is performed in the doctor’s office under local anesthesia.
- Sclerotherapy — A chemical is injected into the veins, which irritates and scars them. These abnormal veins will close and circulation will be rerouted to healthier veins. Your body eventually absorbs the injected veins.
Studies have shown that RLS patients have seen a dramatic drop or elimination of symptoms with vein therapy.
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Reviewed February 16, 2017
