Poor circulation in the feet and legs is commonly found in the elderly above all other age groups. In Virginia, there are several clinics that assist patients with circulation problems, spider veins and varicose veins. Solving these problems is important to many people, as these venous conditions can be painful and embarrassing for most patients.
The first signs of poor circulation that a patient may experience include cold feet, tingling and numbness and swollen ankles. These conditions may be precursors to more serous health problems if circulation is not improved. Patients should always see their doctor if they experience these symptoms, but there are still other things they can do to improve circulation.
One thing that people with poor circulation in their feet can do is begin exercising. The more active a person becomes, the better their circulation will be. This doesn't mean that you have to hit the gym and start pumping iron, but other less strenuous actives may help improve blood flow. A good starting point is walking. Going for walks is a good way to improve circulation and build up to other activities such as bike riding or swimming. Before exercising, patients should always consult their doctor to make sure that they are healthy enough for such activities.
Eating healthy is another good way to improve blood circulation and one's overall health. Reducing the amount of sugar and fat will help to thin the blood, allowing it to flow easier through the body. An increase in fiber will help the body remove dietary fat, thus further increasing blood flow.
It is virtually impossible to improve blood circulation if you smoke. Quitting is vital to those who wish to improve their blood flow. Smoking may cause hardening of the arteries and high cholesterol, which will hinder blood flow.
Stress relief is another great way to improve blood circulation in the feet. Stress may cause the body to divert blood flow from the feet and the other extremities, causing poor circulation in these areas. Elevating the feet for a short period of time is another simple solution. Lying on the floor and placing the feet on a couch or chair will help to increase blood flow when the feet are returned to the floor.
Soaking the feet in a warm tub may provide temporary relief for poor circulation in the feet, but this is not a long term solution. Natural supplements may also be helpful in increasing blood flow in the feet. People with poor foot circulation have unhealthy circulatory systems overall. Poor circulation in the feet is a sign that circulation in the body is not functioning properly. This may lead to more serious problems such as heart attack or stroke.
Patients with poor circulation should take action as soon as possible to avoid developing a more serious health problem. The first step is to see a doctor and learn as much about the condition as possible before taking any medication or trying any home remedies to improve circulation. A doctor may recommend that the patient visit one of the clinics in Virginia that offer treatment for circulatory problems. These clinics may offer treatments that may be of assistance to patients with poor circulation.
Learn more about Varicose Vein Surgery in Alexandria, Virginia.
