12 Signs You Have POOR Blood Flow (Circulation)

1. Numbness or tingling in the legs or feet: This is a common symptom of poor blood flow, especially when it happens at rest or worsens at night while lying down and improves with walking.Opens in a new windowwww.cvmus.comNumbness or tingling in the legs or feet
2. Leg cramps: Muscle cramps in the calves, thighs, or buttocks that typically occur while walking or exercising and are relieved by rest can be a sign of PAD.Opens in a new windowverywellhealth.comLeg cramps
3. Painful feet: Persistent pain in your feet, especially in the toes, that worsens with activity and improves with rest can be a sign of poor circulation.Opens in a new windowclevelandclinic.orgPainful feet
4. Sores that heal slowly: Poor blood flow can make it harder for wounds on your legs and feet to heal properly. You might notice sores that take a long time to heal or don’t heal at all.Opens in a new windowtogether.stjude.orgSores that heal slowly
5. Skin changes: Poor blood flow can cause your skin to become pale, shiny, or cool to the touch. You might also notice decreased hair growth on your legs and feet.Opens in a new windowlaurelclinical.com.auSkin changes due to poor blood flow
6. Cold feet: Even in warm environments, your feet may constantly feel cold due to reduced blood flow.Opens in a new windowimdb.comCold feet
7. Weak pulse in the legs or feet: A weak or absent pulse in the legs or feet compared to the pulse in your arms can be a sign of PAD. However, it’s important to note that feeling your pulse in your feet can be difficult, so it’s best to see a doctor for a proper evaluation.Opens in a new windowwww.drkosak.comWeak pulse in the legs or feet
8. Erectile dysfunction (ED) in men: Poor blood flow can also affect the penis, leading to difficulty getting or keeping an erection.Opens in a new windowclevelandclinic.orgErectile dysfunction
9. Slower hair and nail growth: Due to reduced blood flow to the extremities, hair growth on the legs and feet may slow down. Similarly, your nails may become brittle and grow slower.Opens in a new windowhyugalife.comSlower hair and nail growth
10. Digestive issues: In severe cases of PAD, poor blood flow can affect the digestive system, leading to constipation or bowel urgency.Opens in a new windowwww.news-medical.netDigestive issues
11. Restless legs syndrome (RLS): This condition causes an uncontrollable urge to move your legs, especially at night. While RLS can have other causes, it can also be a sign of poor circulation.Opens in a new windowclevelandclinic.orgRestless legs syndrome
12. Sexual dysfunction in women: Reduced blood flow to the genitals can lead to decreased libido, vaginal dryness, and difficulty achieving orgasm in women.Opens in a new windowwww.mdpi.comSexual dysfunction in women

It’s important to note that some of these symptoms can be caused by other medical conditions. If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it’s important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis and discuss treatment options. Early diagnosis and treatment of poor blood flow can help prevent complications like heart attack, stroke, and leg amputation.