Circulatory Conditions

What are circulatory conditions?

Circulatory conditions affect the circulatory system, specifically, the blood, blood vessels, or the heart. Circulatory conditions may cause a diminished blood flow and oxygen supply to different body parts. Extremities, such as arms, legs, fingers, and toes are often affected.

Circulatory conditions may range in severity from manageable high blood pressure to life-threatening heart attacks and strokes.

What are the symptoms of circulatory conditions?

Symptoms of circulatory conditions can manifest in multiple ways, including:

• Tingling or numbness in your extremities
• Fatigue
• Cool legs and feet
• Chest pain
• Heaviness in the chest
• Swelling in the ankles
• Increased urination
• Fainting
• Unhealing sores on your legs or feet
• Cramping in the legs when walking
• Changes in skin color

Only a doctor can give a proper diagnosis of your medical condition. However, if you believe you may be experiencing symptoms of a circulatory disorder, you should make an appointment to see a doctor. Disorders can show up with a wide range of symptoms, and some, like high blood pressure, may be symptomless.

What are the causes of circulatory conditions?

There are many reasons someone can increase their risk of circulatory conditions, some that can be managed and treated, and some that cannot. These include:

• Smoking
• Alcohol abuse
• Being overweight
• Bad diet
• High stress levels
• Being inactive
• Certain ethnicities
• Family history of similar conditions
• Older age
• Being male

Can any complications arise if left untreated?

If circulatory disorders are left unchecked and untreated, complications may arise. These complications may include:

• Aneurysm
• Heart attack
• Heart failure
• Peripheral artery disease
• Sudden cardiac arrest

What medications treat circulatory conditions?

There is a wide range of medications that your doctor may prescribe to control your circulatory conditions, such as anticoagulants, beta-blockers and diuretics.

Common medications may include