Blood flow is what delivers oxygen and nutrients to the body’s cells. Impaired blood flow can adversely affect the heart, brain, and organs. The main symptoms of this are as follows:
Tingling and numbness in the hands and feet: When blood flow to the hands and feet decreases, there is a tingling or ‘pins and needles’ sensation. This is a major sign that blood is not reaching them properly.
Coldness in the hands and feet: The palms and feet are always cold even without external coldness due to reduced blood flow. The body’s natural heat is maintained when blood reaches them properly.
Swelling and discoloration in the feet: When blood flow decreases, there is a possibility of edema in the feet. In addition, the skin may become pale or slightly blue (cyanosis) due to lack of oxygenated blood.
Muscle pain and fatigue: Severe pain and muscle cramps in the legs when walking or climbing stairs are caused by insufficient blood flow to the muscles.
Wounds that take longer to heal: Wounds on the skin that take longer to heal than usual are a sign of poor blood flow. Delayed delivery of nutrients can affect cell regeneration.