About Poor Blood Circulation
In order to understand the common symptoms of poor blood circulation, it is important to understand the causes of poor circulation. Constricted circulation in the body is sometimes called peripheral vascular disease, or peripheral artery disease; the condition is characterized by arteries that are constricted or clogged due to fatty buildup. These fatty buildups can occur in any person, but they tend to be more prevalent in people who smoke, have hypertension, high cholesterol and diabetes. Those with a family history of circulatory problems are at higher risk, as are those of advanced age. If left unchecked, peripheral artery disease can lead to severe medical conditions such as heart attack and stroke.
Sensations in the Legs
Since blood circulates from the heart, poor blood circulation most commonly affects the extremities that are farthest away from the heart and are the most difficult to supply with blood. The first sign of poor circulation is often feelings of pain, numbness or soreness in the lower legs and feet, especially during exercise. Since exercise increases the muscles' demand for blood, the lack of blood is more easily noticeable during exercise. As restricted blood flow becomes more pronounced, you may experience cramps and leg pain during less strenuous activity such as walking or climbing stairs. At more advanced stages, these symptoms may even be present on occasion while at rest. The legs may also feel cold when compared to the hands, arms or other parts of the body.
Changes in Appearance of the Legs
Along with various sensations in legs, poor circulation can lead to various changes in the appearance of the legs. Paleness or blueness of the skin is a common symptom of poor blood flow, as is a diminished growth rate of nails or hair on feet or legs. Eventually, you may also lose hair on the legs, and your toenails may become altered in shape and color. Another common symptom is the formation of sores or ulcers on the feet and legs that are difficult to heal. Any of these changes in the appearance of legs that occur in concert with strange sensations in the legs are a warning sign that more severe complications may be on the horizon. If you experience these symptoms, you are well advised to seek medical advice and take obvious steps to improve circulation, such as quitting smoking and lowering cholesterol by eating healthy foods.
Tags: appearance legs, artery disease, blood circulation, blood flow, changes appearance, changes appearance legs