Managing Restless Leg Syndrome: Tips and Treatments Available in Chattanooga
What is Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)?
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, is a neurological condition that creates an overwhelming urge to move your legs, especially during periods of rest or inactivity. This urge is often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations such as tingling, crawling, or aching feelings in the legs. The symptoms are typically worse in the evening or at night, which can severely impact a person’s ability to fall or stay asleep.
The Link Between RLS and Venous Insufficiency
While RLS has various causes—including iron deficiency, chronic diseases, and medication side effects—many people are unaware of its potential connection to vein health. Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) occurs when the veins in the legs fail to return blood efficiently to the heart, often due to faulty valves. This pooling of blood increases pressure in the veins and can lead to symptoms that mimic or exacerbate RLS.
Recent studies suggest that treating venous insufficiency can significantly reduce or even eliminate RLS symptoms in some patients. This makes a proper vein health evaluation critical for those suffering from restless legs.
Available Treatments in Chattanooga
At The Vein Institute, we specialize in identifying and treating the root causes of vein-related discomfort. If venous insufficiency is contributing to your RLS symptoms, we may recommend one or more of the following:
- Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT): A minimally invasive procedure using laser energy to close faulty veins and reroute blood to healthier ones.
- Sclerotherapy: An injection treatment for smaller varicose or spider veins that irritates the vein lining and causes it to collapse and fade.
- Lifestyle modifications: Elevating the legs, maintaining regular physical activity, reducing caffeine and alcohol, and wearing compression stockings can all help manage symptoms.
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Why Choose The Vein Institute?
We offer state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and customized treatment plans to address vein-related RLS. Our experienced team in Chattanooga is committed to helping you regain restful sleep and relief from nightly discomfort.
