Restless Leg Syndrome

If you can’t fall asleep because your legs won’t stop itching or throbbing, you may have restless leg syndrome. At One Vein Clinic, Fawzi Farha, MD, offers in-office evaluations to diagnose the root cause of your restless legs. Dr. Farha customizes a care plan using lifestyle changes, medications, and other strategies to relieve the uncomfortable sensations in your legs, so you can finally get high-quality sleep you deserve. Call the office in Augustine, Florida, to schedule a consultation for restless leg syndrome or book an appointment online today.

What is restless leg syndrome?

Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a condition that causes leg discomfort and uncontrollable urges to move your legs to relieve the uncomfortable sensations. These urges can affect your ability to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night.

Imbalances in the brain chemical dopamine that controls muscle movement may be a cause of the restless leg sensations. You might be at increased risk for RLS because of your family history or due to underlying medical conditions like:

• Iron deficiency
• Kidney failure
• Spinal cord injury
• Parkinson’s disease
• Peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage)

RLS can develop at any age and can worsen as time goes on. The lack of sleep the condition can cause may lower your quality of life and put you at risk for insomnia, depression, and accidents that result from excessive drowsiness.

When should I seek treatment for restless leg syndrome?

You should schedule a diagnostic evaluation at One Vein Clinic for restless leg syndrome if you have sensations in your legs that disturb your sleep such as:

• Aching
• Itching
• Pulling
• Throbbing

Symptoms typically affect both legs at the same time and you may only find relief by shaking or stretching your legs.

Dr. Farha reviews your medical history, physically examines your legs, and may order blood work or other diagnostic testing. Based on the results of your test, he creates a treatment plan to relieve the sensations in your legs, so you can get better quality sleep.

How is restless leg syndrome treated?

Your treatment plan for restless leg syndrome may include medications that increase dopamine levels in your brain. Medications that relax your leg muscles may also help you fall asleep.

Dr. Farha may also recommend lifestyle changes and home remedies that can ease restless leg symptoms such as:

• Avoiding caffeine
• Getting daily exercise
• Massage therapy
• Using ice or heat compresses
• Taking warm baths before bedtime

If these strategies aren’t enough to treat RLS symptoms, Dr. Farha may refer you to a sleep specialist or neurologist for additional care.

Call One Vein Clinic to schedule a diagnostic evaluation for restless leg syndrome or book an appointment online today.