Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)

What Is Restless Leg Syndrome?

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), also known as Willis–Ekbom Disease, is a neurological and sleep-related condition that creates an uncontrollable urge to move the legs. People often describe the sensations as:

• Creeping or crawling
• Tingling or itching
• Pulling or throbbing
• Tugging or “electric” feelings
• A sudden urge to shake or move the legs

RLS symptoms are typically worse in the evening or at night, especially when sitting or lying down. This can interfere with sleep and daytime functioning.

Important: RLS is not always related to vein disease, but venous insufficiency can worsen nighttime discomfort in some individuals — especially when symptoms appear alongside leg heaviness, swelling, or visible veins.

What Causes Restless Leg Syndrome?

RLS has several possible causes, and in many cases, more than one factor is involved.

1. Genetic factors

RLS often runs in families. Many individuals report symptoms starting before age 40.

2. Medical conditions linked to RLS

RLS may be associated with:

• Hypothyroidism
• Iron deficiency or low ferritin
• Fibromyalgia
• Chronic kidney disease
• Diabetes
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Pregnancy (especially in the 3rd trimester)
• Depression or anxiety disorders

3. Medication-related RLS

Certain medications may trigger or worsen symptoms:

• Antihistamines (allergy medications)
• SSRI/SNRI antidepressants
• Anti-nausea medications
• Certain sleep medications
• Some antipsychotics

4. Lifestyle factors

These can increase symptoms:

• Alcohol
• Nicotine
• Caffeine
• Sedentary behavior

5. Vein-related contributors (when applicable)

Venous insufficiency can contribute to leg discomfort that mimics or worsens RLS symptoms — especially when accompanied by:

• Swollen legs
• Varicose veins
• Leg heaviness
• Leg fatigue at the end of the day

A vein evaluation can help differentiate whether symptoms are neurological, vascular, or both.

Common Symptoms of Restless Leg Syndrome

Uncomfortable Leg Sensations

Creeping, crawling, itching, tingling, or “deep ache” feelings in the legs that improve when you move.

Urge to Move the Legs

Symptoms temporarily get better with walking, stretching, or shaking the legs.

Worse at Night

Symptoms intensify during rest and are most disruptive in the evening or at bedtime.

Sleep Disruption

Difficulty falling asleep, waking up repeatedly, or feeling the need to move to get relief.

Daytime Sleepiness and Fatigue

Poor sleep from RLS can cause daytime tiredness, irritability, and concentration issues.

Treatment Options for Restless Leg Syndrome

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Many patients benefit from a combination of self-care and medical therapy.

Self-Care and Lifestyle Adjustments

• Warm baths or leg massages
• Heating pads or cold packs
• Regular moderate exercise
• Stretching before bedtime
• Reducing caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine
• Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule
• Using specialized RLS foot wraps that apply targeted pressure

Medical Treatments

Your healthcare provider may recommend:

• Iron supplements (if ferritin levels are low)
• Medication adjustments (switching off drugs that worsen RLS)
• Prescription medications for moderate to severe RLS
• Addressing underlying conditions such as thyroid disorders, diabetes, or neuropathy

Vein Evaluation When Symptoms Overlap

If RLS symptoms appear along with swelling, heaviness, or varicose veins, a vein ultrasound may be recommended to rule out venous insufficiency.

Living With Restless Leg Syndrome? We Can Help.

If you live in Northern California and are struggling with RLS symptoms — especially if you’re unsure whether your discomfort is neurological, vascular, or both — the specialists at BASS Vein Center can help.

We provide evaluations to identify potential venous contributors and guide you toward proper treatment.