Poor Circulation

What is Poor Circulation?

Poor circulation affects the blood that moves around the body and keeps your heart pumping and your brain functioning.

When people refer to ‘poor circulation’, they are referring to a problem with the flow of blood around the body. The condition is quite common, although it does vary in severity somewhat.

Causes of Poor Circulation :

There are two specific conditions stemming from poor blood circulation, PVD and PAD.

PVD stands for peripheral vascular disease. It refers to conditions affecting the blood vessels outside of the heart – for example, those carrying blood to the legs.

PAD refers to the involvement of arteries – and is known as peripheral artery disease. It involves a build up of fat called plaque which then hardens on the walls of the arteries, blocking the path for blood to flow through freely. Most cases of PAD occur in older people as the condition takes a while to build up.

The following can also cause or aggravate circulation problems:

• Smoking
• Obesity
• Inactive lifestyle
• Poor diet
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Nerve and thyroid conditions
• Pregnancy
• Prolonged periods of sitting in cramped positions – such as air crafts.

Symptoms of Poor Circulation :

Poor leg circulation produces a development of the following conditions:

• Cramps during activity 
• Leg/ foot fatigue when exercising
• Cramps when resting
• Numbness when sleeping
• Cold feet and hands

People who have poor circulation are also at risk of developing blood clots. The blood clots caused by poor circulation are called Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). This condition occurs when a vein is damaged or blood stops completely. You are at a higher risk of DVT if you are obese or over 40 years of age.

Relief and Prevention of Poor Circulation :

In order to ensure that your body is circulating blood properly you should make sure that you take care of your body.

• Don’t smoke
• Check blood pressure regularly
• Check Cholesterol levels regularly
• Exercise
• Look into shoes that promote healthy circulation
• Keep your feet and hands warm in cold weather
• Keep an eye on the condition and consult your GP if you are concerned