The body’s circulation system has a huge responsibility. It sends blood, nutrients, and oxygen throughout the body. Any time the amount of blood reaching a specific part of your body or organ is reduced, you will likely experience various symptoms, especially in your extremities.
WHAT IS POOR BLOOD CIRCULATION?
In itself, poor blood circulation is not a condition. Rather, it stems from various health problems. So if you have poor blood circulation in your body, you need to address the underlying causes instead of the symptoms only.
COMMON CAUSES OF POOR BLOOD CIRCULATION
Poor blood circulation is most common in the elderly. However, younger individuals can also experience this problem. Some of the most common causes of poor circulation include:
- Age.
- Diabetes.
- Deep vein thrombosis.
- Atherosclerosis.
- Obesity.
- Sedentary lifestyle.
- Smoking.
- Peripheral artery disease.
- Venous insufficiency.
In addition to making your extremities feel uncomfortable, poor blood circulation can lead to deadly health problems if left untreated. If you suffer from any of the effects discussed below, you need to seek medical assistance. This is especially important if you have one of the known causes of poor circulation.
SYMPTOMS
If you are dealing with poor blood circulation, you will experience several symptoms. One of the first ones you may notice is a coldness in your feet, legs, and hands. As unpleasant as this may be, poor blood circulation may be a symptom of a deadlier health condition. Other symptoms of poor circulation to look out for include:
- Swollen arteries and veins.
- Ulcers.
- Leg pain or aches.
- Heaviness in your feet and legs.
- Tingling and numbness.
- Pelvic discomfort or pain.
- Skin discoloration.
- Weeping, split skin.
- Restless feet and legs.
- Toenails that stop growing or grow too slowly.
- Lack of hair growth on your feet and legs.
Certain factors such as weather conditions and age can affect blood circulation as well. So if you notice any of the symptoms listed above, you need to consult a vascular physician. As stated earlier, circulatory problems can potentially cause life-threatening conditions if they are left untreated.
EFFECTS OF POOR BLOOD CIRCULATION
Sometimes, the effects of poor circulation are not apparent. But whether they are obvious or not, poor blood circulation can be dangerous. For example, lack of oxygen reaching vital organs of the body due to poor blood circulation can have serious consequences. Some of these include stroke, heart failure, blood clots, ulcers, and more.
OTHER COMMON EFFECTS OF CIRCULATORY ISSUES
Circulatory problems can affect your life in many negative ways. For example, many people with this problem often find it difficult to stand. This means that exercising at even a moderate pace can be almost impossible. This is especially so when you are experiencing swelling, tingling, and numbness in your feet.
Driving can also be difficult for people with poor blood circulation that impacts their feet. Also, simple tasks that require you to hold an object, such as a pen or knife, can be difficult when your hands are swollen, cold, tingling, or numb. If circulatory issues are affecting your everyday activities, it is time to seek medical help.