Poor blood circulation affects nearly one third of adults in the United States. Poor blood circulation is characterized by heavy legs, joint discomfort, varicose and spider veins, fatigue and dizziness.
What is blood flow?
The blood circulation is the movement and transmission of the blood throughout the body. The heart activates a closed system of circulation. Blood circulation is essential in:
- The periphery of the veins transports oxygen, glucose and other essential elements for our cells to function.
- The venous system should transport waste products from our cells such as urea and carbon dioxide.
- Purification of organs: liver, kidney and lung
- The exchanges of cells and blood in the network of capillaries (the very fine vessels that connect arterioles (small veins) with arterioles).
Why is blood circulation important?
Blood circulates within the body through veins and arteries. The blood circulates to provide oxygen and nutrients for the organs in the body. The blood circulation is essential to remove toxins and wastes from our body. Poor blood circulation affects both the arterial and venous systems. The consequences are different.
Poor circulation is most commonly seen in the legs. This can lead to varicose and heavy veins as well as swelling of the calves and ankles. Poor arterial circulation may cause heart attacks, strokes and kidney failure. Raynaud syndrome and other blood circulation disorders can affect the hands or feet.
What are the main causes of poor circulation?
Blood circulation problems can be caused by genetics, diseases, or lifestyle.
Sedentary Lifestyle
Sedentary lifestyles are defined as those who spend more than seven hours per day sitting down. Sitting or lying down too much is bad for the blood circulation for several reasons. Sedentary living can cause blood to be stored at the lower parts of the body. Sedentary lifestyles also encourage weight gain, diabetes, high blood-pressure, and excessive cholesterol in the blood.
It is therefore advisable to take regular breaks and stretch your legs while working in an office, or when teleworking. You can also take time to stretch or pacing while you are on a videoconference. If possible, choose cycling or walking over public transport or driving. It is also important to maintain good posture while working on a computer:
- Straighten the back and head.
- The screen should be raised to eye level.
- The legs must not be crossed. The feet should rest flat on the floor, or on the footrest.
Being overweight
Overweight can affect both arterial and venous blood circulation. Overweight or obese individuals often experience organ compression at the venous levels, which results in poor circulation. Overweight people also experience increased abdominal pressure and a weakening of the venous system. Cardiovascular risk factors that are a result of excessive weight can damage arteries. Overweight can lead to varicose venous disease. Many hospitals and healthcare facilities, such as West Medical, can treat varicose venous.
Unhealthy living
Diets high in industrial products and saturated fats can cause the arteries to clog, making it harder for the blood to reach the organs. It is important to monitor your diet in order to improve arterial circulation. It is important to drink 2L of water per day in order to keep the arteries working properly.
Heredity
Heredity plays a role in the development of certain diseases. If one of your parents has poor circulation, you may be at risk. Even phlebitis or venous insufficiency (a clot inside a leg vein) is a result of heredity.
Smoking
Smokers are more susceptible to phlebitis and venous insufficiency. Smoking can cause the walls of veins to deteriorate and encourage coagulation, which leads to clots. Smoking has a greater impact on the arteries and causes them to narrow. Increased blood clotting can cause a complete obstruction of the arteries that are already narrowed. This may lead to strokes, heart attacks, or infarctions.
Other causes
In more specific situations, such as during hot weather, or after a long journey in a car or plane, blood circulation can be affected. The age is another factor.
What are the main symptoms of venous failure?
Heavy legs
Undoubtedly, heavy legs are a sign of venous failure. You can relieve this symptom by elevating your legs, wearing compression stockings, or applying cold (water, spray) to your legs.
Swelling
In most cases, swelling is accompanied by the feeling of heavy leg. Edema, or unusual swelling in the legs and ankles, can also be observed. The edema can also be accompanied with a burning feeling and discomfort, particularly at high temperatures.
Phlebitis
A blood clot can block a vein. When a superficial phlebitis occurs, it is also called para-phlebitis. The affected area will become painful, red and indurated. Deep phlebitis, characterized by swelling of the calf and thigh, can also occur. Consult a doctor if you experience pain, swelling or an increase in skin temperature.
Tingling
Localized tingling can be a sign of an imbalance in blood flow, such as in the hands or feet. The tingling can last anywhere from a few seconds to several hours. This is caused by a prolonged posture that compresses specific body parts. Change your position, or stretch your legs by walking around.
Itching
Sometimes, tingling is accompanied by itching and tingling. When you move around, the sensation goes away because blood flow becomes more fluid.
Pain and cramps
When blood flow isn’t optimal, it can cause joint and muscle tissue to weaken. Joint pain and muscle cramps can result.
Unusual Fatigue
This causes the cells to be less able to function. It can cause intense fatigue, which can negatively affect the quality and life of the individual.
