Poor blood circulation is referred to by many health experts as the silent killer. Unfortunately, many people have circulation problems but don’t realize the potential health problems associated with the issue. Often having cold hands or feet may seem innocuous but it can actually be a symptom of a serious circulation problem.

Here are a few signs that you may have poor circulation:

Swollen Feet

Swollen feet are often caused by poor kidney function. When there is poor blood circulation, fats tend to build up in the renal arteries. resulting in a pool of blood in the legs.

This is why people who suffer with swollen feet are advised to elevate their legs whenever possible. Whenever you can, make sure that your legs are positioned higher than the level of your heart. This will facilitate improved circulation so that any swelling in the lower legs will subside. If you have elevated your legs for some time, but there are no improvements, please consult your physician to determine the real cause of the problem.

Cold Extremities

This is the most common symptom of poor circulation – having cold hands and feet. Proper blood circulation is crucial for maintaining and regulating overall body temperature. So, if a person complains of cold extremities when the weather indicates otherwise, they most likely have a circulation problem.

Numbness or Weakness In the Arms and Legs

Some people who have poor blood circulation complain of numbness or weakness in their arms and legs. This may occur when they are active or when they are at rest. If these symptoms occur suddenly, and the person also shows speech problems and drooping facial muscles, it may mean there is low blood circulation to the brain. These symptoms are commonly experienced by people who have atherosclerosis. Immediate medical help must be sought, in case they are having a stroke.

Skin Discoloration

Skin discoloration is another tell-tale sign of poor circulation. This condition is referred to as cyanosis. Changes in skin color are seen in the person’s arms, legs, hands or feet. The toes and fingers will appear to have bluish tints. The skin may also look shiny but the extremities look bluish and often pale, due to a lack of oxygen and blood circulating to those areas.

Constipation

Poor circulation also causes all the other systems in the body to slow down, and the digestive system is not exempted from this. If the digestive system slows down due to poor blood circulation then the person will very likely experience constipation. If left untreated, this can develop into a gastrointestinal disorder.

Loss of Appetite

A healthy appetite usually means there is a healthy blood flow to the liver. However, if the body’s circulatory system is unhealthy, a loss of appetite and weight loss may occur. For this reason, if a person experiences a persistent lack of appetite with no obvious cause, a doctor’s consult is recommended to determine any health issues.

Fatigue and Muscle Cramps

Poor circulation makes it difficult for the body to work well. Poor circulation leads to less oxygen and nutrients travelling to all parts of the body, including the muscles. This results in fatigue and muscle cramping.

The blood carries nutrients and oxygen to all parts of the body, so poor circulation is not to be overlooked or ignored. If poor circulation is persistent, this means that vital functions of your body are being starved of both oxygen and nutrition, and many dangerous health issues may arise.