Poor circulation can be defined as an inadequacy of blood flow to a certain area of the body. The body’s circulation system is responsible for sending blood, oxygen, and nutrients throughout the body. So when blood flow to a specific part is reduced, you may experience the symptoms of poor circulation.
Poor circulation is most commonly found in the extremities, such as legs and arms and is usually felt in the fingers and toes.
Symptoms of Poor Limb Circulation
Poor circulation isn’t a condition in itself. Instead, it results from other health issues. Because of that, it’s important to treat the underlying causes of poor circulation, rather than just the symptoms.
That said, the most common symptoms of poor circulation include:
- Tingling in the arms or legs
- Numbness in the arms or legs
- Stinging or pulsating pain in the limbs
- Muscle cramps
What Poor Circulation Means
Several conditions can lead to poor circulation. When caught early, most conditions and diseases that lead to poor circulation can be treated.
The most common conditions include obesity, diabetes, heart conditions and arterial issues. In fact, poor circulation can be a sneaky symptom of a serious vascular condition called Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD).
What is PAD and How Does it Relate to Poor Limb Circulation?
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a condition that develops when the arteries that supply blood to the internal organs, arms and legs become completely or partially blocked as a result of atherosclerosis.
PAD can lead to poor circulation in your legs. PAD is a circulatory condition that causes narrowing of the blood vessels and arteries. With atherosclerosis, arteries stiffen due to plaque buildup in the arteries and blood vessels. Both conditions decrease blood flow to the extremities and can result in pain.
Over time, reduced blood flow in your extremities can cause:
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Nerve damage
- Tissue damage
PAD is most common in adults over age 50, and is often associated with diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure – but it can also occur in younger people. People who smoke are at a higher risk for developing PAD early in life.
It’s important to be aware of the PAD risk factors to better prepare for how to manage them. The risk for PAD increases with age, and diabetes is one of the most common risk factors, especially in patients over 50 years old.
How is PAD Treated?
You can do a lot to stop peripheral artery disease in its tracks, such as:
- Exercising
- Controlling your cholesterol and blood pressure
- Not smoking
- Eating a healthy diet
There are several prescription drugs that may improve symptoms in people with poor circulation. Some doctors may also prescribe aspirin or other anticlotting drugs.
For severe peripheral artery disease, the vascular experts of Lam Vascular may recommend peripheral artery bypass surgery or one of the following minimally-invasive vascular procedures:
To better serve the patient population living with PAD, Dr. Lam and his team created the PAD Resources Portal. This easy-to-navigate, comprehensive deep-dive into the topic of peripheral artery disease will tell you everything you need to know. From risk factors and symptoms to treatments and prevention tips, the PAD Resources Portal is an invaluable tool.
The Limb Salvage Center
The vascular experts at Lam Vascular & Associates are passionately dedicated to the treatment of PAD. Many vascular centers specialize in a specific subset of procedures. But at The Limb Salvage Center at Lam Vascular & Associates, the goal is to provide you a range of treatment options and partner with you to help you decide which treatment or therapy is ideal for your specific situation.
This unique and state-of-the-art center is designed to help you fully understand your options, and with guidance from Dr. Lam and the Lam Vascular & Associates team of specialists, choose the right treatment plan or procedure for you.
A Plan for Poor Circulation
Poor circulation is more than just an inconvenience or an annoyance. It is something that should not be ignored as it can point to other health problems. If you suffer from poor circulation and have any of the other symptoms mentioned, see your primary care physician at Lam Vascular. Call today or click here to request an appointment!
About Lam Vascular & Associates
With locations in Dallas, Rockwall, Arlington and Sunnyvale, Lam Vascular & Associates has been home to Texas’ trusted vascular surgeons since 2009. Recognized at national, regional and local levels, Dr. Lam and his team have been awarded many times over.
Lam Vascular & Associates is committed to providing comprehensive care in a setting that is safe, comfortable, convenient and highly personalized. The goal with every patient is to alleviate pain and restore freedom so you can do what you love to do. Your next step matters. Reach out to Lam Vascular & Associates today.
