How to Treat Blood Circulation Disorders
Learn More About Common Circulatory Problems and Treatments
May 15, 2009
Most people give their circulatory system no thought at all until something goes wrong. Yet circulation disorders can be prevented or their symptoms improved by actively managing one’s health.
Chilblains Treatment
Chilblains thrive in cold temperatures and get worse when the skin is warmed too quickly. When this happens, small blood vessels in fingers, toes and face make a quick transition from cold to warm, putting pressure on the bigger blood vessels in a specific area. Blood then escapes into nearby tissues and the skin becomes itchy, inflamed and burning. While chilblains can affect anybody, people with poor circulation are at greater risk. What can be done?
Exercise regularly and get the blood pumping. Exercise has a positive impact on chilblains and other circulatory disorders. Over-the-counter remedies can ease the pain and itching and keeping the hands and feet warm will help to keep the problem at bay. Do not rub or scratch chilblains. Topical steroids may need to be used in case of very swollen severe chilblains.
Varicose Veins Treatments
Varicose veins arise from standing for long periods of time or is part of the aging process. Obesity and pregnancy are risk factors.
Varicose veins develop when blood that should be flowing upwards from the legs towards the heart starts flowing back due to lost elasticity in the veins. The end result can be bulging, twisted dark blue or purple veins which stand out from the skin. Symptoms can include pain, burning, throbbing and cramping or even swelling and bleeding.
Elevating the legs and wearing compression stockings can help but if the problem is serious, a consultation with a medical professional is recommended since complications can arise, such as ulcers and blood clots.
Deep Vein Thrombosis Treatment
Deep vein thrombosis is associated with the formation of a blood clot in a vein either superficially (near the surface of the skin) or deep within a muscle. Deep vein thrombosis can be life threatening if a blood clot dislodges and travels through the bloodstream to the heart or brain.
Deep vein thrombosis causes could be the result of poor circulation or injury to a blood vessel, among other possible causes such as lack of exercise, use of oral contraceptives or Hormone Replacement Therapy, smoking and/or obesity. Both conditions should be seen to and evaluated by a medical professional.
Raynaud's Disease - What is It?
Raynaud's disease is a rare disorder that affects the arteries. Arteries are blood vessels that carry blood from your heart to different parts of your body. Cold temperatures or stressful emotions can trigger an attack during which little or no blood flows to affected body parts, such as fingers. As a result, the skin may turn white and then blue for a short time. As blood flow returns, the affected areas may turn red and may throb, tingle, burn, or feel numb.
In mild cases, may be just an annoyance. Heat bands and hand warmers may be used on the wrists to warm the blood flowing to the hands. In more severe cases medicines that dilate blood vessels may be prescribed.
Often, circulatory problems can effectively managed by maintaining an ideal weight, managing stress, eating a healthy diet and exercising and moving about regularly.
References:
1. Dr. Petro Van der Merwe, Johannesburg Medical Doctor, Article "Go With The Flow", pg. 86
2. Mayo Clinic
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