Oxygen Delivery Suffers
Poor circulation means less oxygen reaches muscles, skin, and other tissues in the legs, potentially causing pain, discoloration, and slower healing.
Here are five warning signs that deserve attention.
1. Persistent Swelling in the Legs, Ankles, or Feet
One of the most recognizable signs of circulation problems is swelling, medically known as edema.
You may notice:
- Your shoes feel tighter than usual.
- Your socks leave deep marks around your ankles.
- Your feet appear puffy by the end of the day.
- Pressing on the skin leaves a temporary dent.
When the heart struggles to pump blood effectively, blood can back up in the veins. This increases pressure and allows fluid to leak into nearby tissues.
Swelling is particularly common in people experiencing congestive heart failure.
Continue to the next page to discover four additional warning signs that may indicate your heart is under strain.
2. Enlarged or Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that often appear blue or purple beneath the skin.
