Symptoms of poor blood circulation: Cold hands and feet, swelling, numbness among warning signs

Poor circulation can lead to fluid accumulation in the lower extremities, causing swelling. (Image: Canva)

Blood circulation is driven primarily by the heart's pumping action, which propels blood through arteries to various body parts of the body and returns it through veins. The heart's rhythmic contractions create pressure that moves blood through the vascular system. Additionally, the elasticity and contraction of blood vessels, especially veins, help facilitate circulation.  Healthy blood flow depends on factors like blood pressure, vessel elasticity, and the absence of blockages or clots. Proper circulation ensures efficient nutrient and oxygen delivery, as well as waste removal from tissues.

Poor blood circulation can lead to various health issues, including fatigue, numbness, swelling, and slow wound healing. It may increase the risk of cardiovascular problems, such as heart disease and stroke, and impair overall bodily functions by limiting oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissues and organs.

Here are 8 signs that indicate poor blood circulation, according to Vinayak Hospital’s cardiologist, Madhur Verma:

Cold hands and feet: When blood flow is restricted, extremities often feel cold. This happens because reduced circulation limits the warmth reaching your hands and feet. To combat this, keep your extremities warm with gloves and socks, engage in regular physical activity to boost circulation, and avoid smoking, which constricts blood vessels.

Numbness or tingling: Numbness or tingling in limbs can occur due to restricted blood flow, often linked to conditions like peripheral artery disease or diabetes. To alleviate these sensations, stay active to improve circulation, avoid sitting or standing in one position for too long, and manage diabetes through medication and lifestyle changes.

Swelling in the legs or feet: Poor circulation can lead to fluid accumulation in the lower extremities, causing swelling. To manage this, elevate your legs periodically to promote fluid drainage, use compression stockings to support circulation, and reduce salt intake to minimise fluid retention and pressure on veins.

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Varicose veins: These are swollen veins that appear bluish and bulging, often due to weakened vein walls and valves. They can cause discomfort and are a sign of poor circulation. To alleviate symptoms, engage in regular exercise to strengthen veins, maintain a healthy weight, and elevate your legs to reduce pressure.

Fatigue: Persistent tiredness may stem from inadequate blood flow, which reduces oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissues. Combat fatigue by incorporating regular exercise to improve circulation, maintaining a balanced diet to support overall health, and ensuring you get sufficient sleep to allow your body to recover and rejuvenate.

Cognitive issues: Poor circulation can impair brain function, leading to memory problems and confusion. Improve cognitive health by stimulating your mind with puzzles and learning activities, engaging in regular physical exercise to enhance overall blood flow, and eating a diet rich in antioxidants to support brain health.

Cold sweats: Unexplained cold sweats may signal circulation issues, such as reduced blood flow affecting your body’s temperature regulation. To address this, stay well-hydrated, manage stress through relaxation techniques, and consult a healthcare professional to explore potential underlying conditions and receive appropriate treatment.

Pain or cramps: Experiencing pain or cramps, particularly during physical activity, may indicate inadequate blood flow to muscles. To improve this, gradually increase your exercise intensity to avoid overexertion, stay hydrated to maintain optimal blood volume, and consult a healthcare provider if the pain persists or worsens.