Bad circulation: truths and myths about vascular health
Poor circulation is a common health problem that can significantly affect quality of life.
In this article, we will explore in detail what it means to have poor circulation, debunk myths and provide essential information about causes, symptoms and effective treatments, including the vascular surgery services offered at Elytis.
What is bad traffic?
Poor circulation occurs when blood flow is slowed or blocked in certain areas of the body. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, from numbness and tingling to severe pain and serious complications.
Common symptoms of poor circulation
- Cold extremities: cold hands and feet are a common indicator of poor circulation.
- Num numbness and tingling: sSensations of numbness or tingling in the limbs may signal a circulatory problem.
- Swelling: swelling in the legs and ankles may indicate fluid retention caused by poor circulation.
- Pain: muscle cramps and aches and pains, especially in the legs, are common symptoms of peripheral arterial disease.
- Varicose veins: swollen and visible veins can be a sign of venous insufficiency.
- Wounds that are slow to heal: poor circulation can slow down the healing process.
- Skin discoloration: changes in skin color, such as paleness or bluish tints, can signal circulatory problems.
Causes of poor circulation
- Peripheral arterial disease (PAD): this condition is caused by narrowing of the arteries due to deposits of atherosclerotic plaques.
- Venous insufficiency: occurs when the veins can no longer transport blood efficiently to the heart.
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): a serious condition characterized by the formation of a blood clot in a deep vein.
- Diabetes: high blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels.
- Obesity: excess weight puts extra pressure on the circulatory system.
- Smoking: nicotine narrows blood vessels and increases the risk of circulatory problems.
- Being sedentary: lack of physical activity can slow blood flow.
Myths about bad traffic
- Myth: "Bad traffic only affects the elderly."
- Fact: Although the risk increases with age, poor circulation can affect people of all ages.
- Myth: "Bad traffic is not a serious problem."
- Fact: Ignoring circulatory problems can lead to serious complications such as ulcers, gangrene or even amputations.
- Myth: "Massage is enough to improve circulation."
- Fact: Massage may provide a temporary benefit, but it does not treat the underlying causes of poor circulation.
Diagnosis and treatment of poor circulation
At Elytis, vascular surgery specialists offer a full range of services to diagnose and treat poor circulation:
- Detailed consultation and assessment: complete assessment of the condition of blood vessels and identification of risk factors.
- Arterial Doppler ultrasound: investigating blood flow in arteries to diagnose conditions such as stenosis or peripheral arterial disease.
- Venous Doppler ultrasound: evaluation of vein function to identify venous insufficiency or thrombosis.
- Personalized treatments: each patient receives a treatment plan tailored to their needs.
- Multidisciplinary approach: working with specialists from other fields for integrated solutions.
- Modern technology: investigations and interventions with state-of-the-art equipment.
Prevent bad circulation
- Adopt an active lifestyle: regular exercise improves blood flow.
- Maintain a healthy weight: avoid excess weight to reduce pressure on blood vessels.
- Quit smoking: smoking seriously affects blood circulation.
- Eat a balanced diet: eat foods high in fiber and low in saturated fat.
- Hydrate properly: drinking water helps maintain optimal blood flow.
- Control chronic conditions: diabetes and hypertension need to be properly managed.
Poor circulation is a health problem that needs proper attention and treatment.
At Elytis, our team of specialists in vascular surgery offers effective solutions for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of vascular disorders. Through leading medical expertise, modern technology and a personalized approach, we ensure that every patient receives the best care for a healthy and active life.
Latest medical review:
18.06.2025, Dr. Cristian Ene Roată - Senior General Surgeon, Vascular Surgery
References:
- "Have cold hands and feet? Here are 5 tips to improve circulation". British Heart Foundation, 2024.
- Brida, Margarita (Dr.). 10 warning signs of poor circulation. Guy's and St. Thomas' Specialist Care.
- Salamon, Maureen. "Decoding poor circulation." Harvard Heath Publishing, 2024.