The cardiovascular system is one of the most important system in the human body. Consisting of the heart and blood vessels, they have lots of crucial roles, including transporting oxygen and nutrients via blood throughout the body. As it goes through different organs, the cardiovascular system also plays a role in managing toxin removal out of the body.
Poor blood circulation happens when blood flow are disrupted and somewhat restricted, often due to fat build-up / plaque inside the blood vessels and capillaries. In the long run, this can develop into a more serious matter, as narrowing of blood vessels may cause stroke or heart attack. Therefore, it is important to see the signs of poor blood circulation before it gets worse. On this week's journal, we will be explaining a number of symptoms you may be experiencing if blood flow in your system is disrupted. Read on!
1. Frequent numbness and cramps
Numbness and cramps are usually experienced when you staying in one position for a prolonged period, or aren't doing warm-ups properly before doing exercise. What this occurence is telling you, is that it is a sign of blockage or reduction of blood flow into certain parts of the body. That's why, numbness and cramps often happens in your arms or limbs; parts that are usually most actively used and far from the heart.
While this is a common thing and often times not to be alarmed with, experiencing numbness, tingling, or cramps frequently, even when you aren't doing anything in particular, should raise your concern about a circulatory problem.
2. Experiencing cold hands and feet
Consistent blood supply throughout the body also ensures a stable, normal body temperature. However, when you have poor blood circulation, sometimes the body parts that are furthest from the heart, like your toes and fingers, may not have enough heat and cause them to feel cold.
3. Physical and mental exhaustion
Your circulatory system also influence how you feel physically. Since the circulatory system transports oxygen and nutrients throughout the body, disruption of this may cause chronic fatigue. That is why you should be aware of how you are feeling throughout the day. If you are feeling tired almost all the time, it's worth a shot to evaluate how physically active you are.
Aside from that, you may also feel difficulties in concentrating and focusing on tasks. The brain relies on constant blood flow and oxygen supply in order to function properly. Therefore, encourage your circulatory system through routine physical activities.
4. Poor immune levels
A healthy immune system also ties closely to a well-running metabolism. In order to stay healthy, the body needs to have enough amino acids and minerals for immunity to function properly. Since nutrients are also being transported through the circulatory system, disruptions may also cause lower immunity, making it harder for the body to prevent illnesses and fight off infections.
5. Skin problems related to blood circulation
The skin often times can indicate what is going on inside the body. Generally, when circulatory problems occur, it may affect lower extremities, including legs and feet. Therefore, circulatory problems may also cause unsightly appearance on the skin surface; ranging from skin discolouration, slow wound healing, swollen areas, to varicose veins. Some more serious condition include peripheral artery disease, that may develop further into stasis dermatitis, an eczema-like skin condition.
