Posted on October 27, 2020 by Show
950 Proper circulation is key for maintaining optimal health. It ensures that blood and oxygen continuously flow throughout the body, allowing every organ to function properly. It helps to heal wounds faster, it keeps your brain sharp, it keeps your heart healthy, and it even gives your complexion a natural flush. “Circulation can also affect the immune system, as certain blood cells, carried by the bloodstream, help to fight infection,” says Marjan Moghaddam, D.O., a family medicine physician with Henry Ford Health. During a time when the cold, flu and COVID-19 are prevalent, it’s especially important to make sure your circulation is up to par. There are, however, certain conditions that can make maintaining proper circulation more difficult. What Leads To Poor Circulation“Peripheral artery disease (when narrowed arteries reduce blood flow), obesity, anemia, untreated blood clots, uncontrolled diabetes and high blood pressure can all affect circulation,” says Dr. Moghaddam. “Smoking can also lead to poor circulation.” If you think you may have poor circulation, take note of any of the below symptoms:
What You Can Do To Boost Your CirculationThe good news is there are several things you can do to get your blood pumping. Try any of the below:
To find a doctor at Henry Ford, visit henryford.com or call 1-800-HENRYFORD (436-7936). Marjan Moghaddam, D.O., is a family medicine physician who sees patients at Henry Ford Medical Center in Capitol Park and Harbortown. Poor circulation occurs when there is reduced blood flow to a specific part of the body. Poor circulation in the hands may result from a health condition or certain aspects of a person’s lifestyle. The heart beats to pump blood all around the body. Blood carries essential nutrients and energy to cells around the body, including oxygen. The circulatory system includes the heart and blood vessels, which are responsible for carrying blood around the body. Poor circulation occurs when something disrupts this process, preventing sufficient blood supply to some body parts. Conditions that may lead to poor circulation in the hands include atherosclerosis, anemia, and Raynaud’s disease. Smoking may also increase the likelihood of poor circulation. In this article, we will examine the symptoms and causes of poor circulation in the hands. We will also look at potential treatments and how to improve circulation. Signs and symptoms of poor circulation in the hands include:
Problems with the circulatory system are common. More than 64 million people in the United States, including children and adolescents, have conditions affecting the heart and circulatory system. There are many possible causes of poor circulation in the hands, including: AtherosclerosisAtherosclerosis is a buildup of fatty substances in the arteries that restricts blood flow around the body. Atherosclerosis often causes no symptoms until it becomes a medical emergency, such as a heart attack or stroke. However, symptoms of atherosclerosis may include:
Treatments for atherosclerosis can include a combination of medicine and changes to one’s lifestyle. Doctors may recommend reaching or maintaining a moderate weight or exercising regularly. They may also prescribe statins to lower cholesterol. AnemiaAnemia is a common blood disorder that affects over 3 million people in the U.S. It occurs when there are not enough red blood cells or when they do not function well. Red blood cells normally carry oxygen around the body. Symptoms of anemia include:
Treatments for anemia depend on its type. Doctors may recommend iron supplementation and dietary changes. Sometimes, treating an underlying condition that causes anemia may be necessary. Some types of anemia require blood transfusions or ongoing use of medication. Raynaud’s diseaseRaynaud’s disease is a rare condition that causes episodes of narrowed blood vessels. Symptoms of Raynaud’s disease sometimes occur in response to cold temperatures or stress and include:
Episodes of narrowed blood vessels can last minutes or hours and vary in frequency. Doctors may suggest some strategies to alleviate Raynaud’s disease symptoms, such as practicing stress management and avoiding the cold. If symptoms are severe, a doctor may recommend medication or surgery. SmokingSmoking can increase the risk of peripheral arterial disease, a condition stemming from a narrowing of the arteries caused by a buildup of plaque. This can lead to amputations. Smoking can also increase a person’s risk of blood clots, because it makes blood stickier and more prone to clotting. Quitting smoking will reduce these risks. A person may experience withdrawal symptoms when quitting smoking. A person can choose from a number of strategies for quitting smoking, including the different methods, using prescription medicines from a doctor, and trying nicotine replacement patches, gums, or lozenges. If a person has poor circulation in their hands regularly, a doctor will ask about symptoms and perform a physical examination. They may check a person’s temperature and the appearance of the hands and fingers. A doctor may also check whether a person has any pain or numbness in the affected area. Tests that can help doctors check how the circulatory system is functioning include:
A doctor may also use tests to check for specific underlying conditions. For example, they may order a cold stimulation test to check for Raynaud’s disease. Looking after the heart and blood vessels may help a person improve their circulation. Tips for general heart health include:
Symptoms of poor circulation in the hands can occur temporarily and do not always indicate a health condition. For example, cold temperatures may cause poor circulation symptoms, including numb and pale fingers. However, when these symptoms occur regularly, it could be a sign of an underlying condition. A person should seek guidance from a doctor if symptoms of poor circulation in the hands happen frequently without an apparent cause. Sudden symptoms that may indicate a medical emergency and a need for immediate medical help include:
Poor circulation in the hands may have different causes, including atherosclerosis and anemia. Poor blood flow in the hands can result in cold, numb, and painful fingers. Depending on the cause, other symptoms might also occur. Making dietary changes and exercising regularly, for example, can improve a person’s circulation at any age. If symptoms persist without an apparent cause, a person should contact a doctor so that they can diagnose and start treatment for any underlying conditions causing poor circulation. How can I improve circulation in my hands and feet naturally?Try any of the below:. Increase cardiovascular exercise. ... . If you smoke, quit. ... . Drink black or green tea. ... . If you are anemic, take iron supplements or eat iron-rich food. ... . Dry brush your body. ... . Decrease stress. ... . Include more omega-3 fatty acids in your diet. ... . Wear compression socks and elevate your legs.. What is the best natural remedy for poor circulation?Tips for improving blood circulation in your legs naturally. Get walking. Walking is one of the best low-impact ways to get your circulation moving in a healthy way. ... . Elevate your legs. ... . Get into yoga. ... . Stay hydrated. ... . Wear compression stockings. ... . Get a massage. ... . Stretch it out. ... . Take a bath.. What vitamin is good for circulation in hands and feet?Specifically, vitamin B3 has been shown to reduce inflammation and increase circulation. People who always have cold hands and feet may want to consider a vitamin B supplement to improve blood flow and heart health.
How can I increase blood circulation in my hands naturally?Exercise Regimen
Exercise is the simplest way to improve your blood's ability to circulate through your hands. Your body's muscles require oxygenated blood in order to function, and as you work the muscles in your hands, the surrounding blood vessels will dilate to allow more of this oxygenated blood to flow through.
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