Causes of decreased blood circulation and how to prevent it
do you believe that? Your body contains approximately 60,000 miles of blood vessels, which make up your circulatory system. Which in turn transports blood to every part of the body. However, when blood circulation is poor, blood flow slows down or causes it to stop. This causes a drop in blood circulation (Hypotension) as a result of the inability of the body’s cells to obtain oxygen and nutrients in order to function efficiently. So get to know the most important Causes of sudden drop in blood circulation And ways to prevent it.
Causes of decreased blood circulation
Decreased blood circulation may occur for an unknown reason, but it is considered one of the most prominent causes of decreased blood circulation:
1. Heart problems
Some heart diseases may lead to a decrease in blood circulation, such as bradycardia, heart attack, and heart failure.
2. Endocrine problems
One of the causes of decreased blood circulation is thyroid problems such as parathyroid disease, adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease), and low blood sugar.
3. Blood loss
Exposure to a large amount of blood loss such as an injury, or internal bleeding may lead to a sharp drop in blood, causing a drop in blood circulation. Which could be life threatening if not treated quickly.
4. Septicemia
The body may get an infection into the bloodstream, such as salmonella bacteria, which may lead to a severe, life-threatening drop in blood circulation, which is called septic shock.
5. Take some medication
One of the reasons for the decline in blood circulation is also taking some medications that may lead to low blood pressure, such as:
- beta blockers
- Nitroglycerin
- diuretics;
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Parkinson’s disease medications
- Erectile dysfunction drugs such as Viagra
6. Diabetes
Diabetes can lead to circulatory problems. Over time, high levels of glucose in the blood can damage blood vessels. Therefore, it is necessary for diabetics to properly balance blood sugar levels and cholesterol levels in order to maintain normal blood flow.
Diabetics are also considered to be more at risk of developing high blood pressure, heart disease, and atherosclerosis.
7. Decrease in blood after eating meals
One of the reasons for the decline in blood circulation is the drop in blood pressure sometimes after eating meals, especially in the elderly, which causes a feeling of dizziness and fainting. To reduce the risk of circulatory collapse, it is preferable to lie down after eating, eat small and light meals frequently, and reduce carbohydrate intake.
8. Loss of appetite or binge eating
People with anorexia have an abnormally slow heart rate and low blood pressure. Binge eating may also lead to an electrolyte imbalance, which can lead to irregular heartbeat and severe drop in blood circulation.
Symptoms of decreased blood circulation
Sometimes symptoms of low blood circulation may not appear, and symptoms may range in severity from one case to another. However, it is considered one of the most common symptoms:
Diagnosis of poor circulation
To find out the causes of decreased blood circulation, the doctor will diagnose the condition according to several factors in order to determine the underlying cause of decreased blood circulation, such as:
- symptoms
- Family medical history
- Physical examination results
- Results of diagnostic tests and various investigations such as blood tests and blood sugar tests for patients with diabetes
Tips for preventing low blood circulation
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Keeping the body hydrated by drinking water constantly, especially if you are exercising or the air temperature is high.
- Maintaining a normal blood pressure level, checking it at least once a month with a home blood pressure monitor or at the nearest pharmacy (normal blood pressure is less than 120/80 mm Hg)
- Balance standing and sitting, especially if you work long hours. Sitting for long periods of time may lead to weak leg muscles, and slowed blood flow in the legs.
- Relax and get enough rest.
- Maintain daily exercise such as walking, running, cycling, and swimming in order to stimulate blood circulation.
- Follow a balanced and healthy diet, by eating more vegetables and fruits, and reducing the intake of saturated fats.
- Quit smoking and drinking alcohol.