Poor blood circulation, or also known as peripheral (puh-rif-er-uhl) vascular disease, is one of the most common complications, which is related to diabetes. Poor circulation results to serious heart problems, which includes heart attack and stroke. Poor circulation may also lead to disorders of the legs, arms, and feet, just like numbness, tingling, and poor healing of wounds.

Causes of Poor Circulation

Poor circulation takes place when the blood arteries become obstructed or blocked. As such, a lot of people with poor circulation are also suffering from Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, high levels of cholesterol and high levels of fat in their bloodstreams. Good circulation of blood is very important due to the fact that blood carries oxygen and nutrients, which are needed by the body in order to function properly.

Factors that Lead to Poor Circulation

• Not enough exercise
• Smoking
• Inadequate diet
• Poor control of blood-glucose levels
• Un-managed high blood pressure                    Check Your Pressure >>

Complications of Poor Blood Circulation

• Slow-healing of wounds
• Erection dysfunction and other sexual problems
• Swelling of the legs and extremities
• Tingling of the legs and arms
• Heart problems
• Elevated temperature
• Changes in the color of skin
• Cold feet

How to Deal with Poor Circulation                                                                                                             Follow Your Heart Beat

Almost all diabetics have the capability to improve their blood circulation; some of the suggested ways are:

• Modifying their diets
• Increasing exercise
• Reducing weight
• Taking blood sugar medications

Exercise like stretching is considered as an important form of exercise for diabetics because it can help in improving poor circulation. It enhances blood circulation and helps in developing the muscles to be more flexible. Additionally, you may also talk to your doctor about the benefits of professional massages.

Additional Information:

There are as well medications, which are specifically made to treat poor circulation. These types of medications are meant to decrease or prevent blood coagulation. The most basic treatment that most doctors are advising their patients is by taking one tablet of adult aspirin each day. In rare cases, people that have poor circulation may need to undergo an angioplasty (an-jee-uh-plas-tee) procedure to widen the narrowed arteries.  We highly advise that you should communicate first with your physician before trying any methods in an effort to correct poor circulation.