Restless Leg Syndrome
La Bella Vita Laser and Vein Center
Cardiovascular Surgeons & Phlebologists located in New Orleans, Covington, LA & Metairie, LA
Restless leg syndrome causes painful, itchy, pins-and-needles sensations in your arms and legs and may keep you up at night. Fortunately, you can get expert diagnosis and treatment from Dr. Randall Juleff at La Bella Vita Laser and Vein Center in Covington and Metairie, Louisiana. If restless leg syndrome is preventing you from getting a good night’s rest, call or schedule an appointment online today.
Restless Leg Syndrome Q & A
What is restless leg syndrome?
Restless leg syndrome is a nervous system disorder that causes an intense urge to move your legs. The sensation is described as an itching, uncomfortable, creeping sensation similar to a tingling “pins and needles” feeling. The sensations are only relieved by shifting or moving your legs.
The urge to move your legs is more common at night and is disruptive to your sleep, so restless leg syndrome is often also classified as a sleep disorder.
What causes restless leg syndrome?
The exact cause of restless leg syndrome has not been identified, but many researchers agree that it’s linked to vascular conditions like venous insufficiency and varicose veins.
Like venous insufficiency and varicose veins, restless leg syndrome primarily affects your legs. The symptoms of all these conditions include numbness, fatigue, cramping, and swelling, so the connection seems clear.
Other factors that may contribute to restless leg syndrome include:
- Family history
- Age
- Iron deficiency
- Autoimmune disorders
How is restless leg syndrome diagnosed?
Dr. Juleff diagnoses restless leg syndrome during a comprehensive consultation. He reviews your medical history and discusses your symptoms with you. He also checks for signs of vascular disease and venous insufficiency, examining your legs and ankles for swelling and skin discoloration. Finally, he checks your pulse in your ankles and evaluates whether there’s a temperature difference between your feet and legs and the rest of your body.
How is restless leg syndrome treated?
Dr. Juleff treats restless legs syndrome by addressing the venous insufficiency causing the condition. Endovenous ablation is a common technique, and Dr. Juleff offers both endovenous laser treatment and radiofrequency ablation options for this outpatient procedure. He also offers sclerotherapy to close varicose and other poorly functioning or blocked veins. Improved circulation should relieve your symptoms and reduce your urges to move or shift your legs.
If you think you have restless leg syndrome, make an appointment with Dr. Juleff to get to the root cause of your symptoms. He offers personalized attention to both diagnose and treat your condition so you can enjoy better sleep and better health. Call or make an appointment online today.
*Individual results may vary.