Poor Circulation

Overview

Poor circulation occurs when blood flow to certain parts of your body is reduced. This commonly affects the extremities, particularly the legs and feet, but can impact any area of the body. Poor circulation is often a symptom of underlying health conditions rather than a disease itself.

Common Causes

  • Peripheral artery disease (PAD): Narrowed arteries reduce blood flow
  • Diabetes: High blood sugar damages blood vessels
  • Blood clots: Block blood flow in veins or arteries
  • Varicose veins: Damaged valves impair blood return
  • Obesity: Extra weight strains circulatory system
  • Raynaud's disease: Blood vessels overreact to cold
  • Smoking: Damages blood vessels and reduces oxygen
  • High blood pressure: Damages artery walls
  • High cholesterol: Plaque buildup in arteries
  • Heart conditions: Weak heart pumping
  • Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of movement impairs circulation
  • Anemia: Insufficient red blood cells

Symptoms of Poor Circulation

In Extremities

  • Cold hands and feet
  • Numbness and tingling
  • Swelling in feet, ankles, or legs
  • Muscle cramps or pain
  • Skin color changes (pale, blue, or red)
  • Slow-healing wounds
  • Weak pulse in legs or feet
  • Hair loss on legs or feet
  • Shiny skin on legs
  • Slow toenail growth

General Symptoms

  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Memory problems
  • Headaches
  • Chest pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Erectile dysfunction

Treatment and Management

Lifestyle Changes

  • Regular exercise: Walking, swimming, cycling
  • Quit smoking: Improves blood vessel health
  • Healthy diet: Low in saturated fats, high in fruits and vegetables
  • Weight management: Reduce strain on circulatory system
  • Stay hydrated: Helps blood flow
  • Elevate legs: When sitting or lying down
  • Avoid tight clothing: Especially around waist and legs
  • Manage stress: Reduces blood vessel constriction

Medical Treatments

  • Medications: Blood thinners, vasodilators, cholesterol-lowering drugs
  • Compression stockings: Improve leg circulation
  • Angioplasty: Opens blocked arteries
  • Bypass surgery: For severe blockages
  • Treating underlying conditions: Diabetes, heart disease management
  • Physical therapy: Specific exercises for circulation

When to Seek Emergency Care

Call 911 or seek immediate medical attention for:

  • Sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side
  • Chest pain or pressure
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Sudden severe leg pain with pale or blue skin
  • Signs of stroke (face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty)
  • Confusion or difficulty speaking
  • Loss of consciousness

See Your Doctor If You Have:

  • Persistent cold extremities
  • Non-healing wounds or sores
  • Pain when walking that stops with rest
  • Skin color changes in feet or hands
  • Swelling that doesn't improve
  • Varicose veins causing discomfort