If you have poor circulation, your body can show this in various ways. You probably already know that you can get cold hands and feet, but did you know that this can manifest itself in many other ways? Below, we explain the consequences of poor circulation and what you can do to improve it.

8 consequences of poor circulation

1. You are more likely to get cold hands and feet

If your blood circulation is reduced, less warm blood reaches the extremities of your body. As a result, your hands and feet are often slightly colder. You may notice this particularly on colder days or when sitting still for long periods.

2. Feeling tired and having less energy

Poor blood circulation means that nutrients and oxygen are transported less efficiently through your body. As a result, you feel tired more quickly. This is because your body has to work harder to carry out all its processes properly.

3. You experience tingling, numbness or restless legs

Blood circulation has a major impact on nerves and muscles. Consequently, you are more likely to experience tingling and numb or restless legs if your circulation is not optimal.

4. More muscle cramps and heavy legs

Because your muscles aren’t getting enough oxygen, you may experience more cramps, pain or a heavy feeling, particularly in your legs. You’ll likely notice this most during exercise, walking or after a long day of sitting.

5. Wounds heal more slowly

To repair damaged tissue properly, your body needs good blood circulation. Poor blood flow can be the reason why wounds do not heal quickly enough, as oxygen and nutrients are delivered less efficiently.

6. More frequent headaches or dizziness

Your brain is also highly dependent on a good blood supply. That is why you may sometimes experience headaches, concentration problems or a light-headed feeling more readily. You may also notice this as a feeling of dizziness after standing up quickly.

7. Swollen feet and ankles

Poor circulation can cause fluid to build up more quickly in the legs, feet and ankles. This is particularly common after sitting or standing for long periods, or at the end of a long day.

8. Pale or greyish skin

Sometimes, poor circulation can also be visible in the skin. You may notice this as a pale face or a bluish tinge. This is because certain parts of the body are receiving less oxygen-rich blood than they should.

Fortunately, poor circulation isn’t permanent, and there are many ways to improve it. Below, we’ll tell you what you can do about it yourself.

How can you improve your circulation?

Good circulation is important for transporting oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. If this does not happen optimally, you may experience the consequences mentioned above. That is why it is important to do activities that promote blood circulation, and here’s how to do it:

1. Exercise or play sport regularly to boost your circulation.
2. Avoid sitting or standing for long periods and take short walking breaks during work.
3. Drink enough water to prevent your blood from thickening.
4. Eat a healthy diet with plenty of healthy fats and omega-3.
5. Stop smoking to prevent negative effects on your blood vessels.
6. Ensure you get enough warmth and relaxation, such as a warm bath or a massage.
7. Get enough sleep and reduce stress.
8. Use red light therapy to stimulate blood flow and other bodily processes.

Red light therapy is increasingly being used these days to improve blood flow. The red light stimulates the body’s processes to function optimally. This not only improves circulation but can also treat or even prevent certain conditions and symptoms.

Red light therapy to improve blood circulation

Red light therapy uses specific light waves to penetrate deep into the body’s tissues. This stimulates cellular processes, effectively giving your body’s processes a gentle nudge.

With localised red light therapy, for example using the PowerCure Pro laser, you treat specific areas of the body. This is particularly helpful for localised complaints such as painful or stiff joints and muscles resulting from poor blood circulation. In addition, there is also intranasal red light therapy, which stimulates overall blood circulation.

The benefits of intranasal red light therapy for blood circulation

In intranasal light therapy, red light is administered via the nose, where it comes into contact with the blood-rich nasal mucosa. This supports biological processes involved in energy production, microcirculation and vascular regulation, which may positively influence overall blood circulation and the transport of oxygen and nutrients in the body. This means you can also address the symptoms of reduced blood circulation.

Intranasal red light therapy from IN-light

The IN-light Pro is an intranasal laser that you can use if you want to improve your blood circulation. With just one or two sessions a day, you give the processes in your body a nice boost. You simply need to place the laser in your nose, so it doesn’t take up any extra time and you can carry on with your daily activities. In addition, the IN-light can also help with other symptoms and conditions, or simply to support your health!