Blood carries oxygen and essential nutrients to the vital organs of your body.  Without optimal blood circulation, your body can suffer from its effects - from feeling fatigued to more severe symptoms such as shortness of breath. Varicose veins and peripheral vascular disease can significantly reduce your body’s circulation.  If you are experiencing symptoms, see your doctor or contact us.

To keep the circulatory system functioning at its best, here are a few tips to improve blood circulation.

Quit Smoking

One of the top causes of poor circulation is smoking and using other nicotine products. Nicotine constricts your blood vessels which reduces blood flow to your organs.  Smoking not only causes lung and cardiovascular disease, but it can also be a risk factor for blood clots. One of the best things you can do to improve your circulation, and for your overall health, is to quit smoking.  Need help quitting?  Contact your doctor, or check out online resources such as BeTobaccoFree.gov (https://betobaccofree.hhs.gov/quit-now/index.html).

Exercise

The circulatory system is made up of the heart, lungs, blood vessels and blood. When you exercise, your body's need for oxygen-rich blood increases; thus the harder your circulatory system needs to work.  The heart pumps the blood out to the muscles and organs, and as muscles contract and relax, they squeeze around the large veins in the legs helping to bring blood flow back to the heart and lungs.  Exercise, even just taking a daily walk, can improve circulation.

Reducing Stress

Stress can have a major effect on your mental and physical health, this includes the circulation system. Getting plenty of sleep, taking time for to relax and exercise and avoiding unhealthy foods are all key for reducing stress on the body. If stress is a major factor in your daily life, taking deep breaths, meditation or psychotherapy can help.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can cause serious medical problems and can make poor circulation worse. Your body is made up of plasma which is about 93 percent water. Drinking eight glasses of water daily, more depending on weather and exercise, can help improve circulation. This does not include dehydrating factors like alcohol or caffeine.

Elevate Your Legs

Elevating your legs is a great way to improve circulation, especially if you have varicose veins or peripheral vascular disease. Elevating your legs can help prevent symptoms and severity of the of varicose veins, which can be aggravated by standing for long periods of times.

Varicose veins can cause serious discomfort and even severe pain. Making lifestyle changes can help reduce your symptoms. Plus, this is a great way to start a healthy chapter in your life!