What’s Behind Poor Circulation?

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At Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle, we want our Nature Coast patients to know poor circulation is not just a “normal” part of aging that should just be accepted. In fact, reduced or restricted blood flow to your lower extremities can be a sign of a serious medical condition that should not go untreated. Symptoms of poor circulation include:

  • Hair loss of your feet and legs

  • Feeling like your feet are always cold

  • Numbness or tingling sensations

  • Wounds or cuts are slow to heal

  • Skin that appears white, blue, red, or purple

  • Dry or cracked skin on the feet

If you have noticed one or more of these signs, it’s important to make an appointment at our Hudson office by calling 727-868-2128 or 352-683-5799 so our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales, can examine your feet and find out the source of your poor circulation. Below are three conditions that can be the cause of circulation problems:

1. Raynaud’s Disease—this syndrome causes blood vessels to narrow in response to cold temperatures and reduces blood flow to toes and fingers. In some patients, it is triggered by stress as well. Raynaud’s can also be a side effect of chemotherapy or another illness. While there is no cure for Raynaud’s, medications and lifestyle changes can lessen the symptoms and frequency of attacks.

2. Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)—in the case of PAD, blood flow to the legs and feet is restricted because plaque has built up in the arteries causing them to narrow. Several factors increase your risk of developing PAD, including high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, family history of the disease, and being over 50.

3. Diabetes—patients with diabetes have difficulty regulating glucose levels. When glucose levels remain too high for too long, damage may occur to blood vessels, decreasing blood flow. Poor circulation is particularly dangerous for patients with diabetes because it can affect the body’s ability to heal wounds on the feet, which can lead to dangerous infections and even amputation.

Don’t ignore symptoms of poor circulation. Contact us today if you have questions or concerns about circulation and your feet.

Diabetes, General HealthPasco-Hernando Foot & Anklepoor circulation, PAD, diabetes, Raynaud's Disease, foot health