About Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) Treatments
Up to 10 percent of the population may suffer from Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), a disorder of the nervous system that causes an uncomfortable urge to move the legs or arms. RLS is also considered a sleep disorder because it can disrupt healthy sleep patterns, greatly impairing one’s quality of life.
Patients often describe their RLS symptoms as feeling antsy, creepy, and uncomfortable. While most experience these feelings in their legs, the syndrome can occur in the arms as well.
Restless Leg Syndrome is often associated with the following symptoms:
- Antsy, achy, throbbing, pulling, creeping, or crawling sensation in the legs or arms that results in an irresistible urge to move limbs, especially legs.
- Increased symptoms while at rest. Some patients report symptoms are worse when lying down at night, or sitting for long periods of time.
- Relief of symptoms with activity and movement.
In addition to visiting your primary care physician, a consult with venous disease specialist Dr. Surya Challa should be part of your diagnosis and treatment plan. If Dr. Challa determines that varicose veins or other venous insufficiency is causing your RLS, Chesapeake Vein Center and MedSpa offers numerous effective vein therapies for treating these conditions. Other treatment options for RLS are also available, including iron supplements, prescribed drugs, and exercise.
Frequently Asked Questions about Restless Leg Syndrome in Chesapeake, VA
How do I know if I have Restless Leg Syndrome?
RLS can be difficult to describe and diagnose. Your first step is consulting with your doctor. You should also see a vein specialist to determine if vein disease is the underlying cause. After careful consideration of your symptoms, Dr. Challa will be able to diagnose and treat you.
What kind of vein treatments can help Restless Leg Syndrome?
If vein disease, such as varicose veins, is determined to be the cause of your RLS, Dr. Challa can perform a number of different treatments to improve your vein health, including sclerotherapy, radiofrequency ablation, or ambulatory phlebotomy.
What kind of drugs are used to treat Restless Leg Syndrome?
Certain medications can help relieve RLS by increasing dopamine in the brain, which has the beneficial side effect of reducing leg and arm motion. Drugs that affect calcium channels in the body can also help relieve symptoms. Your doctor will determine if a prescription is right for you.
Are there natural remedies for Restless Leg Syndrome?
For many patients, exercise can help relieve RLS. Other natural remedies include warm baths, massages, applying warm or cool packs, meditation, yoga, and good sleep habits such as getting enough rest, sleeping in a cool, quiet place, and going to bed at a consistent time.
How can I schedule a consultation?
We can’t wait to help you relieve your RLS! Call us today at 757.663.5461 or click here to schedule your consultation today.