Poor circulation in the legs may be caused by many medical conditions, including heart or kidney disease, blood clots and obesity. Peripheral vascular disease, a condition that causes veins to narrow or harden, affects leg circulation, and may accompany heart disease or diabetes. A person with poor leg circulation may experience a variety of symptoms in one or both legs.
Swelling
MayoClinic.com advises that poor circulation may cause fluid to back up in the legs, a condition called peripheral edema. Swelling may occur in the lower legs, ankles and feet. A person with poor leg circulation may find that the swelling becomes worse with prolonged sitting or standing. Severe fluid buildup in the legs may result in pitting edema which leaves a small pit, or dent, in the skin after the swollen area is pressed with a finger. Pitting edema may indicate increased circulatory issues.
Pain
A decrease in blood flow through the arteries to the legs causes a lack of oxygenation to the leg muscles. Without sufficient oxygen, the leg muscles are not able to function properly. Leg muscles may become painful, ache or feel fatigued during exertion or exercise. A person with poor leg circulation may experience leg cramps with activity; however, the American Heart Association states that these cramps generally subside with rest. Over time, pain and discomfort may occur when the legs are at rest. Elevating the legs may increase pain, while hanging the legs from the side of a bed or chair may relieve discomfort.
Ulcers
Poor leg circulation may cause small sores, called ulcers, to develop on the skin. A person may initially notice a burning or itching sensation, as well as reddened skin and swelling. These symptoms may eventually progress into ulcers. Ulcers do not heal quickly, or may eventually heal and then return. Ulcers caused by poor circulation generally develop on the lower leg or foot, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Cool Skin
Reduced blood flow from the heart to the legs changes the body's ability to regulate temperature of the lower extremities. Legs and feet may feel cool to the touch. Skin beneath the toenails may appear bluish in color, especially when legs are below heart level, such as when sitting. Legs may appear pale, as well.
