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Heart and Circulatory System
Is Leg Pain a Symptom of Poor Circulation?
February 09, 2024
Estimated Reading Time: 2m
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Poor blood circulation can cause pain in the legs and feet, tiredness, and marks on the skin, and might even lead to vascular diseases. When the circulatory system is affected, it can cause vascular diseases, including stroke, aneurysm, atherosclerosis, and blood clots.
Keep reading to find out how to identify problems with circulation and what to do to improve blood flow in your legs.
The vascular system is made up of a network of blood vessels that include:
• Veins: Veins carry blood from the capillaries to the heart.
• Arteries: Arteries transport oxygen‑rich blood from the heart to the organs and tissues.
• Capillaries: Capillaries connect small arteries and veins. Their thin walls enable the exchange of substances between tissues and blood.
The reason for poor circulation is usually unknown, but experts say that there are different common causes:
• Family history.
• Smoking.
• Genetics.
• Heart disease, infections, or injuries.
• Older age.
• Being sedentary.
• Conditions that affect the heart or blood vessels.
• Pregnancy.
• Having overweight or obesity.
• Hot seasons. For example, poor circulation can worsen in summer as high temperatures cause the walls of the vessels to dilate.
• Taking certain medications, such as hormones.
How do I know if I have poor circulation?
Blood flow to your legs may be affected if you experience any of the following symptoms:
• Heat or cold in the area.
• Cramping.
• Pain.
• Numbness.
• Swelling.
• Tingling.
• Itching.
• Stabbing pain.
If you experience any of these signs of poor circulation, you should consult a health care professional as soon as possible so they can make a diagnosis and determine the cause of this problem and the best treatments for your situation.
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