Circulation, poor

Poor circulation, or impaired blood flow, can be caused by various etiologic and contributing factors, including:

1. Atherosclerosis: Hardening or narrowing of the arteries due to plaque buildup, which restricts blood flow.
2. Blood clots: Clots can block blood flow in veins or arteries, leading to conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism.
3. Peripheral artery disease (PAD): Reduced blood flow to the limbs, often caused by fatty deposits in the arteries.
4. Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage blood vessels, leading to poor circulation.
5. Obesity: Extra weight can put strain on the heart and blood vessels, hindering circulation.
6. Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and reduces circulation, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
7. Raynaud’s Disease: A condition where smaller arteries constrict, limiting blood flow to extremities, often triggered by cold or stress.
8. Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of physical activity leads to weakened blood flow and poor circulation.

Signs that may warrant professional help:

• Pain or cramping in legs, especially when walking, which doesn’t go away with rest (may indicate PAD or clots).
• Swelling, redness, or warmth in one limb, which could signal a clot or infection.
• Numbness or tingling in the extremities, especially if persistent.
• Cold or pale skin on hands or feet, especially if it’s paired with color changes (e.g., blue or white).
• Chest pain or shortness of breath, which may indicate a more serious cardiovascular issue like a heart attack.