Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a common medical problem that can severely affect sleep and significantly impair a person´s quality of life. There is no specific test for RLS, however, the clinical diagnosis of RLS is based on the following four basic criteria:
• Irresistible urge to move limbs
• Symptoms worsened with rest
• Symptoms worse later in the day/night
• Symptom relief with movement
Although an estimated 1/10 of adult Americans suffer from RLS, there is no clearly defined cause, however, there are numerous attributes of RLS that are routinely found in patients with varicose and spider veins.
The temporary state of pregnancy has served as a physiologic model for RLS. RLS symptoms are present in 20% of pregnant women in the 3rd trimester when superficial veins of the extremities are under the greatest pressure. Following delivery, symptoms of RLS resolve within four weeks in 96% of those studied.
New clinical research has shown a reduction in RLS symptoms following treatment of varicose veins with endovenous laser and sclerotherapy.
The effect of endovenous laser ablation on restless legs syndrome. Phlebology June 2008 23:112-117
If you or a loved one suffer from the symptoms of RLS or have concerns about your venous health, seek an evaluation at Vein911®.
