According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, between seven and 10 percent of the U.S. population may have restless legs syndrome (RLS)—also known as Willis-Ekbom Disease. While the condition is thought to impact women more often than men, its effects on men aren’t unrecognized: a World Journal of Men’s Health study found an association between RLS and erectile dysfunction, suggesting similar biological processes surrounding dopamine deficiency and autonomic dysfunction.
However, new medical breakthroughs give RLS patients hope and help uncover the mystery behind the causes and potential treatments that may bring relief.
It’s not clear whether there’s a complete and total “cure” for RLS or if researchers will ever discover how to eliminate the condition’s symptoms once and for all. That said, the way men treat and manage their RLS symptoms can be critical to controlling the discomfort their restless legs can cause. This is particularly true when RLS starts to prevent a soothing sleep night after night as symptoms worsen.
Let’s explore the current treatment options for RLS in men. We’ll cover both home therapies and professional treatments, and we’ll also look at fascinating new research highlighting the perceived effectiveness of Ropinirole, a medication used to treat Parkinson’s disease, in managing RLS symptoms.
Meanwhile, if you're struggling with RLS, we’re here to provide clarity and find the right treatment for you. Don't hesitate to reach out—schedule a consultation with a board-certified Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) physician today to discuss your symptoms and explore personalized solutions to help you sleep soundly.
You may be wondering if you’ve ever experienced symptoms of RLS. The condition is most commonly characterized by:
It’s also important to emphasize that RLS most commonly occurs at night or while sitting or lying down. Moving may ease the symptoms mentioned above, but only temporarily.
We’ve mentioned that RLS is known for impacting women more often than men—specifically, about twice as often, according to Yale Medicine. That said, it’s also more common and may be more severe in individuals who are middle-aged or older. Gene variants are thought to be related, as well.
With all these potential risk factors to consider, finding the clarity that leads to the confidence to explore treatments can feel overwhelming. Plus, it doesn’t stop there: Mount Sinai estimates that RLS affects between three and 15 percent of the general population, including children, and commonly goes undiagnosed despite effective treatments. The institution adds that children and teens with RLS are likely to have a family history of the condition, while adults with RLS tend to develop it due to a nervous system issue, which more often comes with pain in the lower legs.
A study by the National Library of Medicine found that correcting superficial venous reflux (SVR) improves the severity of RLS symptoms. SVR is closely related to chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), a broader condition that occurs when veins can no longer efficiently pump blood back toward the heart due to the damaged valves inside them that are responsible for proper blood flow.
The difference between SVR and CVI is simple: SVR refers specifically to valve failure in the superficial veins close to the skin’s surface, while CVI encompasses a wider range of issues with blood flow in both deep and superficial veins. Untreated SVR can lead to CVI and continue to worsen.
The results of the NLM study suggest a strong association between vein disease and RLS and recommend exploring a treatment for CVI for RLS. Taking things a step further, researchers have found a potential treatment that overlaps with one used for another chronic condition that affects how muscles work: Parkinson’s disease.
Ropinirole, sold under the brand name Requip, is a prescription medication available in both regular and extended-release tablets. It can help minimize the uncomfortable urge RLS patients have to move their legs, especially at night, which improves sleep quality. For patients with Parkinson’s disease, it can help control movement and manage other symptoms.
Like all medications, Ropinirole doesn’t come without side effects, potential complications, and other risks, so it’s critical to talk to your doctor if it’s a treatment you think may improve your quality of life. Your doctor will examine your updated medical history and weigh the potential benefits against the medication’s risks. They’ll also make sure that the current medicines and supplements you’re taking won’t interfere with Ropinirole’s intended effects or cause an adverse reaction, which may require them to adjust the doses of one of these medications, as well.
It’s important to reiterate that Ropinirole isn’t intended to cure RLS. It’s critical to take it exactly as directed by your doctor to prevent potentially severe side effects, which may include dizziness, nausea, hallucinations, and confusion. According to the Mayo Clinic, other common side effects involve leg swelling, sleepiness, unusual body movements, and even a worsening of Parkinsonism, which may leave the medicine’s efficacy up to debate entirely.
We’ve touched on how treatment for vein disease can improve RLS symptoms, but are there other ways to combat the condition’s uncomfortable sensations with a supplement or home remedy? Yes, and several signs point to nutrition.
According to the Mayo Clinic, anemia, or lack of iron, is common in patients with kidney failure. Poor kidney function can lead to an accumulation of iron in the blood, altering body chemistry and potentially triggering or worsening restless leg symptoms. This means upping your intake of healthy, iron-rich foods can help soothe your restless legs. Adequate iron also offers a host of other benefits, such as improved concentration, boosted energy levels, and immune system strength.
Compression socks for restless legs and other conditions related to vein disease are quickly growing in popularity, especially when they’re medical-grade and high quality. Despite putting added pressure on the legs, their unique design compresses the ankle and gradually diminishes toward the knee or thigh, which improves circulation. With that in mind, ask your expert CVR physician to take your measurements and place an order to ensure a perfect fit—improving your vein health is what we do best!
Effective treatment for RLS is crucial for improving overall quality of life. Whether through prescription medications such as Ropinirole, taking on a proactive self-care regimen, or exploring professional treatment modalities for vein disease, the expert physicians at CVR are eager to remind you that relief is within reach! Call 240-965-3915 to speak to a Patient Services Representative or schedule your consultation online.
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