What Causes Restless Leg Syndrome?

Fibromyalgia

Many fibromyalgia patients also experience sleep disorders, with one of the most common being restless leg syndrome. In fact, one study showed sixty-four percent of fibromyalgia patients also struggle with RLS. Restless leg syndrome and fibromyalgia are both neurological conditions, but researchers don't yet understand the underlying mechanisms that cause them. They are not sure why so many individuals with fibromyalgia also develop RLS.

One theory is both of the conditions are central sensitivity syndromes. These syndromes involve nervous systems developing sensitivities to certain environments or sensory input. With central sensitivity syndromes, patients are sensitive to strong smells, loud noises, bright lights, pressure against the body, rough textures, and any other stimuli the central nervous system processes.

Venous Insufficiency

Venous insufficiency can cause restless leg syndrome. In fact, studies show up to twenty-two percent of RLS patients have some form of venous insufficiency. When restless leg syndrome occurs alongside venous insufficiency, one of the best ways to treat it is by also treating the varicose veins. The Journal of Phlebology published a study indicating when patients had both venous disease and restless leg syndrome, ninety-eight percent saw a reduction in RLS symptoms when they had their varicose veins treated. In addition, eighty percent of patients experienced symptom relief on a long-term basis. The first step to diagnosing and treating varicose veins is for individuals to have a doctor evaluate their legs in an office visit. They may also use noninvasive ultrasound technology to get a more definitive sense of the condition.