Do you have cold hands and feet, swelling in your extremities, or a tingling sensation? Here’s what it could mean and how to improve your circulation naturally
Cold hands and feet, swollen ankles, frequent fatigue, and tingling fingers are often more than just an inconvenience – they can be a signal that your blood circulation is not functioning well. Poor circulation is a common problem that can affect anyone, regardless of age, and in the long run can lead to more serious health consequences.
The causes can be varied – a sedentary lifestyle, smoking, being overweight, diabetes, high blood pressure or even a hereditary predisposition. When blood does not circulate effectively, tissues and organs do not receive enough oxygen and nutrients, which leads to a number of unpleasant symptoms.
Main symptoms of poor circulation
1. Cold hands and feet
One of the most obvious signs. When blood flow is reduced, the temperature in the extremities drops as the body directs more heat to vital organs.
2. Numbness and tingling sensation.
Intermittent numbness or slight tingling in the hands and feet may indicate that fat or deposits are obstructing the free flow of blood through the arteries.
3. Constant fatigue
If you feel exhausted for no apparent reason, it could be a sign that your muscles and tissues are not getting enough oxygen and nutrients.
4. Varicose veins
Weak vein walls and damaged valves lead to blood retention and swelling of the veins, which causes the characteristic blue or purple lines on the legs.
5. Spider veins (telangiectasias)
These are small red or bluish capillaries visible under the skin. They usually do not pose a health risk, but they can be an aesthetic problem.
6. Swelling of the legs and arms
When blood accumulates in the lower extremities due to poor venous outflow, edema can occur, especially after prolonged standing or sitting.
7. Cyanosis (blue skin)
Lack of oxygen in the blood can give the skin a pale or bluish tint, especially on the fingers and lips.
8. Delayed wound healing.
With impaired blood circulation, the immune system weakens and cell regeneration slows down, leading to slower healing.
9. Leg ulcers and wounds:
This is an advanced stage of circulatory disorders. Poor blood supply makes it difficult for skin lesions to heal, which can lead to chronic ulcers.
