Do compression socks help with restless legs syndrome?
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder that causes an unpleasant feeling, along with the irresistible urge to move your legs. It affects your quality of sleep and produces constant fatigue, often leading to other problems, like depression. There are several ways to manage RLS, including compression socks for restless legs syndrome, medication, and home remedies.
Possible effects
PLMS - Periodic Limb Movement of Sleep. This makes the legs twitch during sleep.
Symptoms
Urge to move your legs (especially at night) often accompanied by a tingling sensation and cramps.
Potential Causes of Restless Leg Syndrome
Genetic factors
Studies suggest that RLS may be produced by both genetic and environmental factors.
Low levels of iron
There has been found a connection between restless leg syndrome and low levels of iron in the brain. Vitamin B-12 deficiency may also be involved.
Risk factors for RLS
Pregnancy, kidney failure, diabetes, peripheral neuropathy, spinal cord conditions, rheumatoid arthritis, alcoholism, smoking, venous insufficiency, Parkinson’s disease.
Treating Restless Leg Syndrome
Some people use compression socks for restless legs syndrome, which provide temporary comfort by applying pressure to the legs. For long-lasting results, you should visit a specialist who can identify and effectively treat the underlying cause. In our vein clinics, one of our doctors can analyze your case and create a comprehensive treatment plan for you.
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Calming RLS Symptoms
Compression therapy
Compression socks can temporarily relieve discomfort and promote circulation.
Stretching
Yoga and other exercises may alleviate the symptoms and improve the quality of sleep.
Massages
Massaging your legs before going to bed improves circulation and mitigates the symptoms.
FAQ About Restless Leg Syndrome
What is the process of diagnosing restless leg syndrome?
Your doctor will ask you to describe your symptoms and will perform an evaluation to diagnose your condition.
They will ask you several questions about your personal medical history. Let them know if you have a strong urge to move your legs (mainly at night), along with uncomfortable sensations. Also, tell them if these sensations decrease when you move your legs.
Does RLS only affect the legs?
Despite its name, it’s possible to experience RLS in other parts of your body, like the arms.
Does older age make you prompt to develop RLS?
About 10% of Americans have RLS. This condition is more common in women than in men, and the symptoms usually start at the age of 40.
Nevertheless, young people can develop RLS too. In fact, both children and adolescents can suffer from RLS. About 35% of patients with RLS develop their symptoms before they turn 20.
Does restless leg syndrome have a cure?
There is no cure for restless leg syndrome. However, it’s important to accurately diagnose the causes to define a comprehensive treatment plan that effectively tackles the underlying problem.
Can restless legs syndrome go away without treatment?
In rare cases, RLS can disappear without ever treating it. However, in most cases, symptoms tend to get worse with time.
Should I worry if I have restless legs?
RLS could be a symptom of an underlying condition, like diabetes, anemia, Parkinson’s disease, or venous insufficiency.
If left untreated, these could develop into even more serious health problems. That’s why it’s not enough to mitigate the symptoms, you should visit a doctor who can identify the cause of your syndrome.
What should I avoid if I have restless legs syndrome?
If you think you may have RLS, you shouldn’t consume alcohol or smoke. You should also avoid certain foods, like coffee and other and caffeinated beverages (such as chocolate and tea).
Let your doctor know if you use psychiatric or anti-nausea medications or antihistamines.
