There are many causes of poor blood flow, but there are a few that are more common than others. Some of the more common causes of poor blood flow include obesity, smoking, a lack of vitamins and minerals, and a condition called Raynaud’s disease. Luckily, you can help to prevent these issues by learning what they are and how you can combat them.
Smoking
Smoking is harmful to the heart and blood vessels. It increases the chances of blood clots and blockages, which can lead to stroke and death. As well as increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease, it can also cause peripheral artery disease.
The walls of the arteries become weaker, making it easier for plaque to form. This can then lead to aneurysms, balloon-out arteries that can rupture, causing a life-threatening emergency.
Nicotine in cigarettes weakens arteries and causes them to constrict. Constriction makes it easier for plaque to form, which in turn weakens the blood vessel’s walls and enables fatty deposits to build up on them.
Similarly, nicotine reduces the good cholesterol in the blood. This decreases the blood’s ability to carry nutrients and oxygen to cells, as well as decreasing the ‘good’ cholesterol’s ability to protect the heart.
Fatty plaque inside arteries can cause atherosclerosis, which restricts the flow of blood from the heart to other parts of the body. This in turn leads to poor circulation. If the blood flow is restricted, there is less oxygen and nutrient delivery to the cells, resulting in the formation of varicose veins and spider veins.
Poor circulation can also cause gangrene, which results in amputation. In some cases, amputation can be prevented with surgery.
Smoking is linked to a variety of other diseases. For example, smoking can increase the risk of coronary artery disease, as well as increase the chance of developing Buerger’s disease.
Smoking also causes a rise in blood pressure, which can increase the risk of stroke. It can also lead to bone fractures, which can take longer to heal.
People who smoke are also more likely to develop diabetes, which is a disease that increases the risk of vein damage.
Varicose veins
Varicose veins are swollen and twisted veins that can cause pain and discomfort. They can also result in venous insufficiency. This condition can lead to blood clots, leg ulcers, and skin discoloration.
Some factors that increase the risk of varicose veins include being overweight, standing for long periods, and hormonal changes. Women are at greater risk than men. Having a family history of varicose veins can also increase your chances.
If you are experiencing symptoms of varicose veins, visit your doctor. The doctor will perform a physical examination to diagnose the condition. He or she may recommend a Doppler ultrasound.
You should also wear compression stockings. Compression socks help support the blood flow and prevent the veins from swollen.
If your varicose veins are causing skin discoloration, talk with your doctor. You may need to visit a dermatologist. Dermatologists are specialists in treating skin conditions.
You may be a candidate for surgery to remove your varicose veins. Surgery may be performed under general anesthesia. However, the procedure can be painful and result in bleeding. Your doctor will need to keep you in compression stockings for a few days after the procedure.
Varicose veins aren’t usually serious. But they can be caused by a faulty valve or poor blood flow. As the valves in your veins get damaged, they stop working properly. When the valves stop functioning, the blood leaks back into the vein. This causes the vein to swell and become red.
The best way to prevent varicose veins is to stay active and wear clothes that are comfortable. Wearing a loose waistband can also encourage blood flow. It’s important to have regular checkups with your doctor to make sure your varicose veins aren’t a symptom of another medical condition.
Lack of vitamins and minerals
A lack of vitamins and minerals can wreak havoc on your health. Not only do these micronutrients support bodily functions, but they also help to shape your body’s most important organ: your brain. Fortunately, a well-balanced diet is the best way to ensure your vitamin and mineral needs are met. In fact, a healthy and nutritious diet is one of the keys to preventing and reversing age-related cognitive decline.
One of the simplest ways to increase your odds of living a long and healthy life is to consume foods rich in antioxidants. These compounds can help to reduce your risk of developing cardiovascular disease. They also can enhance your memory and concentration, and may even aid in the fight against cancer. Vitamin E is particularly useful for this purpose.
Many of the most beneficial micronutrients are consumed in small quantities. Some are available in foods, but others can be ingested through supplements. For instance, magnesium is a necessary component of many enzymes in the brain, and can be obtained through food sources. Another useful nutrient is zinc, which is vital for the formation of synapses.
Having enough vitamin B12 can also improve your chances of avoiding the common cold. The vitamin is also a good source of iron, which is critical for the production of red blood cells. If you have been experiencing chronic pain or fatigue, check your vitamin levels. You may want to consult with a doctor to ensure you get all the vitamins and minerals you need.
The best way to prevent anemia is to make sure you get plenty of exercise and eat a healthy, well balanced diet. However, if you’re unable to, you might consider supplementing with the right vitamins and minerals to maintain optimal brain function and blood circulation. Gainswave Therapy in Brandon FL is also a popular option that promises quicker results.
Obesity
Obesity is bad news for the cardiovascular system and the overall health of millions of adults worldwide. While being overweight may sound like fun, it can also lead to heart disease, stroke and other health concerns. The good news is that obesity is treatable. For example, losing just 10 pounds may reduce your blood pressure and improve your circulation.
Weight gain can cause fatty deposits to form in your blood vessels. This can lead to a condition known as atherosclerosis. Not only can this lead to heart disease, it can wear on the arteries that deliver blood to the body’s organs.
It is well known that excess weight is a risk factor for heart disease, but you may not know that obesity can also affect the quality of your life. Obese individuals are at increased risk for conditions such as vascular dementia, high blood pressure and stroke.
A recent study suggests that an increase in physical activity may be the best way to mitigate the negative effects of obesity. In particular, a brisk walk, bike ride or a few rounds of tennis may be the best way to boost your cardiorespiratory fitness, a vital component of cardiovascular health.
The most important fact is that being overweight can increase your risk of having cardiovascular conditions such as diabetes. Diabetes can cause a host of medical problems, including high blood pressure and poor blood circulation.
If you are concerned about your health, make sure you get regular checkups and ask your doctor about recommended exercise routines. These include a daily minimum of 20-30 minutes. Also, try to avoid smoking, since smoking increases your risk for cardiovascular problems.
Raynaud’s disease
If you think you might have Raynaud’s disease and poor blood flow, it’s important to talk to your physician right away. Your doctor will perform a physical examination and ask you a series of questions to find out the reason for the condition. You might have symptoms that are caused by an autoimmune disorder, or you may have other medical problems that cause a change in your blood vessels.
Symptoms include the appearance of white and blue skin, throbbing, and tingling. The underlying cause is an exaggerated response to cold temperatures.
In addition to the symptoms, people with Raynaud’s disease have a limited blood flow in their extremities. They are also likely to experience ulcers. Some patients have gangrene, which can cause the loss of tissue at the tip of the finger or toe.
While there is no known cure, there are treatments that can help you manage the condition. These treatments can include lifestyle changes, medication, and avoiding certain triggers.
One of the most important things you can do to treat your disease is to avoid cold-weather activities. It’s also important to use hand warmers, coats, and other items to keep your hands warm.
Another type of treatment is the use of calcium channel blockers, such as amlodipine. These medications relax the blood vessels. However, some people only take them during the cold weather.
There are also other medications you can take if your attacks are severe. Your physician may recommend a medication called ergotamine. This can be a helpful supplement when you’re suffering from Raynaud’s.
To prevent further attacks, you should also avoid medicines that cause your blood vessels to tighten. For example, if you are taking a blood pressure medication, you should consult your doctor about switching to another medication. Also, you should be sure to keep your hands and feet warm. Using insulated covers can also help.