Cramps, tingling, and pain in your hands or feet can be signs of poor blood circulation. If ignored, poor circulation can lead to serious health problems.
Dr. Veenadhari Wang, an assistant professor at Baylor College of Medicine, explains the warning signs and treatment options for poor circulation.
“The body tries to protect blood flow to vital organs, so symptoms usually start in the hands and feet,” said Dr. Wang.
“Blood delivers oxygen and nutrients and removes waste. Anything that disrupts blood flow affects this process.”
Several factors can cause poor circulation, including lifestyle and genetics. One common cause is atherosclerosis, where cholesterol and fat build up in the blood vessels, narrowing the arteries. This condition is often found in smokers and diabetics.
Other conditions, such as high blood pressure, inflammation, and blood clots, can also harm blood flow. Family history of atherosclerosis, diabetes, or high cholesterol increases the risk of poor circulation. Men, older adults, and African Americans are also more likely to face circulation issues. If untreated, poor circulation can damage vital organs like the heart and liver.
Early signs of poor circulation can be hard to notice because symptoms usually appear at advanced stages of other diseases. Common symptoms include burning pain in the feet or toes when at rest or pain in the thighs, calves, or buttocks after walking, which goes away with rest. Slow-healing wounds or discolored skin are also signs of circulation problems.
Managing chronic diseases can help reduce pain from poor circulation, but Dr. Wang emphasizes that lifestyle changes are the best prevention. Quitting smoking, exercising regularly, taking cholesterol medication, and losing weight can improve circulation.
For severe cases, medications may be prescribed along with lifestyle changes. If symptoms persist, doctors might suggest surgical options, such as balloon angioplasty to widen a narrowed blood vessel or a bypass surgery to redirect blood flow around a blockage.
“The best way to treat poor circulation is to prevent it by reducing risk factors like smoking and staying physically active to keep your heart and blood vessels healthy,” said Dr. Wang.
By recognizing the signs of poor circulation early and making healthy lifestyle choices, you can protect yourself from more serious health issues.
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