When the flow of blood through the legs and feet is significantly reduced, it is referred to by doctors as poor peripheral circulation. Peripheral circulation problems can occur for many reasons. Most of the time, it is the result of advancing age, being overweight, or living a very sedentary lifestyle. One of the reasons why poor circulation tends to be left untreated for so long is that the symptoms do not develop all at once. Instead, they gradually develop over months or years as the condition worsens.

At first, poor circulation that is left untreated will lead to a variety of cosmetic problems. Later on, it may progress further. The first thing that most people notice as a result of circulation issues is a puffiness in the legs and ankles that is known as edema. This frequently occurs alongside a red or brown discoloration on the backs of the legs. Still worse cosmetic problems can occur if it is left to progress without proper treatment.

Before long, the development of what are known as varicose veins begin. These are bulging, sometimes discolored veins that are quite unattractive, as well as warnings signs of worse things to come. They demonstrate an increased risk of deep vein thrombosis, as well as blood clots. If action is not taken to intervene, the next complication that is likely to occur is the development of persistent wounds that do not quite heal. Open wounds that do not heal are very likely to become infected, especially because the lack of blood flow further inhibits the body’s ability to heal and clean it properly. In very advanced cases, the potential of amputation exists.

The combination of diabetes and poor circulation makes up the vast majority of amputations in the US. The symptoms of circulation problems, when they occur, are definitely not something to ignore. Cosmetic developments such as the discoloration and varicose veins may potentially be ignored, but just remember that a few steps down the road of neglect lie ulcers and potential amputation. Do yourself a favor and learn how to recognize the symptoms of poor circulation. If you start to exhibit some of the signs of circulation problems that we have mentioned here, find yourself a doctor so you can do everything in your power to protect your health and your legs.  There are many easy ways to improve leg circulation, so you have no excuse.