The Connection Between Diabetes and Poor Circulation

According to the International Diabetes Federation, hundreds of millions people suffer from diabetes worldwide. Because it’s so common, it’s important for diabetics to understand the risks that come with the condition. One of the most common side effects is poor circulation.

Those that suffer from diabetes know that it causes high levels of sugar (glucose) to build up in the blood. Because it causes issues in the blood, diabetes is a major cause of poor circulation. Diabetes puts individuals at high risk for circulation problems and related complications, including cardiovascular disease and nerve damage. Many people with diabetes suffer from pain, numbness and discomfort as a result of their blood not circulating properly. These issues are mostly located in the feet and lower legs, as these areas are more prone to poor blood flow.

In What Ways Does Diabetes Affect Circulation?

Diabetes affects circulation by preventing blood vessels from circulating blood properly. Over time, diabetes leads to higher blood glucose levels in small, medium and large blood vessels. High blood glucose levels damage small blood vessels (capillaries), leading to narrowing, inflammation, and impaired blood flow. High glucose levels also damage the endothelium, reducing the production of nitric oxide, which helps blood vessels relax. As blood sugar levels increase, a plaque can form on the blood vessel walls. The damaged vessel walls become rough, allowing fatty deposits to stick and form plaque, leading to atherosclerosis. High glucose levels accelerate atherosclerosis, making arteries narrower and harder, which limits oxygen delivery to tissues. Prolonged high blood sugar physically and chemically damages the lining of blood vessels, causing them to narrow and stiffen. Diabetes can also increase the risk of clots and blockages due to increased platelet clumping together. When this happens, the vessel passages narrow and prevent proper blood flow. This reduced blood flow in the body can lead to a number of complications and it’s one of the main reasons why diabetes is commonly linked to heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. Maintaining target blood sugar levels (A1C) is crucial for preventing further vascular damage.

Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD)

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is the primary form of poor circulation in diabetes, affecting the legs and feet. About 1 in 3 people with diabetes over age 50 develop PAD. PVD is a disorder that is very common in people with diabetes. It’s the name given to the process of plaque build-up in blood vessels. It most commonly affects the feet and lower legs and can cause pain, discomfort, fatigue, numbness, tingling, swelling (edema), and skin color changes such as paleness or a bluish tint. The lack of proper blood flow to the extremities can prevent the body from being able to heal wounds, prevent pain and reduce inflammation. Poor circulation limits the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to tissues, leading to various health issues. If unaddressed, PVD can also lead to other very serious health problems, including a significantly higher risk of amputation in diabetics due to non-healing infections.

Diabetic Neuropathy and Foot Problems

Diabetic neuropathy, caused by nerve damage from high blood sugar, can impair the nerves' ability to send signals, leading to numbness, tingling, and foot problems. Dry skin and cracked skin, especially on the feet and lower legs, are common symptoms of poor circulation in diabetes. Difficulty in healing can lead to infection and increase the risk of serious complications, including amputation. That’s why foot care is essential—check your feet and inspect your feet daily for wounds, sores, or changes in skin condition to prevent infection and serious complications.

4 Ways Those With Diabetes Can Work to Increase Circulation

1. Exercise Regularly and Stay Active

Exercise should be an essential part of a daily routine for anybody suffering from diabetes and poor circulation. This is because exercise naturally increases local circulation while working to lower cholesterol and improve heart function. Exercising for just three minutes every 30 minutes can improve blood flow and blood vessel dilation more effectively than longer bouts of exercise for people with type 2 diabetes. Better circulation also means that your body tissues have better access to oxygen and other nutrients which help with pain relief. Focus on aerobic exercises such as walking, running, biking or swimming, along with these at-home workouts and stretches:

2. Maintain a Heart Healthy Diet

There are no downsides to a healthy diet. Steering clear of excessive amounts of salt and saturated fats can help you manage your body weight, blood pressure and cholesterol. A heart healthy diet supports circulation, helps manage blood sugar, and reduces risk factors such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol. A better diet can keep your arteries clear and lower your blood sugar. Be sure to discuss any diet with your doctor to make sure you are getting the nutrients you need.

3. Quit Smoking

The harmful chemicals in cigarettes have very negative effects on the circulatory system. Continuous smoking can cause plaque to build up in the blood vessels which slows circulation and raises blood pressure. Smoking increases the risk of circulation problems and serious complications.

4. Drink More Water

Drinking lots of water can keep your body hydrated, which helps keep systems such as blood circulation functioning properly. Staying hydrated is even more crucial for people with diabetes because water can dilute the high blood sugar levels in the bloodstream.

5. Use a Circulation-Promoting Machine

 A circulation-promoting machine like DR-HO’S Circulation Promoter stimulates nerves and muscles to temporarily relieve achy sore muscles to symptomatic relief and management of chronic, intractable pain and pain associated with arthritis. The Circulation Promoter will also stimulate healthy muscles to improve muscle performance and temporarily increase local blood circulation. The DR-HO’S Circulation Promoter is not intended to be used to cure Diabetes.

6. Wear Compression Socks

Wearing compression socks or stockings can improve circulation by gently squeezing the foot and calf muscles, which helps blood flow. Consult your healthcare provider to choose the correct level of compression for your needs.

There are ways to help with poor circulation.

There’s no question that diabetes is a demanding, life-altering chronic condition to contend with. Poor circulation is just one of the many issues that can arise. But the good news is that these steps can help those with diabetes increase local circulation, relieve pain and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Be sure to discuss these steps with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your specific condition. A treatment plan for diabetes should include blood sugar management, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring to reduce the risk of circulation problems. Regular checkups, including foot and eye exams, are important to identify early signs of circulation problems and prevent complications.

Disclaimer: DR-HO'S content is intended for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult a certified medical professional for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.