What Are Symptoms of Poor Circulation?

• Common causes of poor circulation
• Symptoms of poor circulation
• What to do if you have poor circulation

Poor circulation happens when the flow of blood to some areas of the body is restricted. These areas often include the extremities (arms and legs), but the brain and the heart can also be seriously affected by poor circulation, particularly if it is left untreated. In this article we will discuss some of the symptoms of poor circulation, and how do deal with them.
Bad circulation is often the result of peripheral artery disease or peripheral vascular disease. Peripheral artery disease and peripheral vascular disease are both serious conditions and require treatment in order to improve the condition and in order to deal with the symptoms.

Peripheral vascular disease is the result of narrowing in blood vessels which lie outside the brain and heart, restricting blood flow. Peripheral artery disease occurs when fatty deposits form on the inside of arterial walls, reducing and sometimes blocking blood flow.

Symptoms of Poor Circulation

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Calf muscles cramping (including whilst asleep)
• Cold feet and/or hands
• Aching, swollen and tired feet
• Cramping in the feet, legs and buttocks that occurs whilst active and improves with rest
• Varicose veins
• Hands and feet “fall asleep”
• Skin becomes discolored i.e. red, blue or pale
• Infections may be slow to heal or may not heal at all

If you suspect that you have poor circulation, you should see your doctor straight away. He or she will be able to run comprehensive tests that might include a physical exam, MRI, or X-ray, to identify any of the conditions that are associated with, or might cause poor circulation. Once the doctor has made a diagnosis, he will then outline your options as to how to deal with the problem. If you do not see your doctor or health care professional, and the causes of poor circulation are left untreated, the result can be more serious complications such as stroke, heart attack, blood clots and dementia.

Here are some conditions that might lead to poor circulation:

• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• High cholesterol

Understanding the symptoms of poor circulation and identifying them is a good first step before you talk over any problems with your doctor who will be able to give you the best advice on how to treat the condition. Treatment options are often related to lifestyle and might include quitting smoking, a program of regular exercise and better diet and nutrition (in particular to lower cholesterol and blood pressure). A doctor may also advise a patient with poor circulation not to sit for long periods without moving, and also to keep their hands and feet warm.

The best way for diabetics to fix circulation problems is for them to keep their blood sugar within the normal range. People who suffer from high cholesterol and high blood pressure may also benefit from medication which assists with improved blood flow.

Everyone should have an understanding of the dangers and symptoms associated with poor circulation. If you think you are suffering from any symptoms of poor circulation, seek immediate medical attention. Poor circulation is very often treatable, improving quality of life.

The information supplied in this article is not to be considered as medical advice and is for educational purposes only.