Poor blood circulation in the legs may result from medical conditions such as peripheral artery disease, which causes blood vessels to narrow and restrict the flow of blood. People with diabetes and heart disease, those who smoke, have high blood pressure or a sedentary life style may also experience leg circulation problems, according to the Baylor College of Medicine. A variety of symptoms can occur from poor circulation in the legs.
Claudication
Claudication is pain or cramping that occurs in the legs with exercise or exertion. Claudication is the result of poor leg circulation and may affect one or both legs, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Symptoms include pain, fatigue or aching in the calves during exercise such as running or walking. Claudication tends to occur each time a person engages in physical activity. Symptoms of claudication generally resolve quickly with rest.
Swelling
MayoClinic.com states that swelling may occur in the legs from reduced circulation. A person may notice swelling in one or both legs; swelling may also affect the ankles and feet. Swelling may become worse after periods of prolonged sitting, standing or walking. Pitting edema, which is severe swelling, may also occur in the lower legs or ankles. Elevation, or raising the legs above heart level, may help reduce swelling.
Skin Conditions
Rash may occur in the lower legs from poor leg circulation, a condition called stasis dermatitis. Skin initially becomes thin and inflamed and may become dry and scaly. A person with stasis dermatitis of the legs may experience itching in the affected leg or legs. Repeated itching may cause skin to become thick and discolored, with purple lesions developing in the legs, ankles and feet. Poor circulation in the legs may also result in skin that feels cool to the touch.
Leg ulcers may also form as a result of poor circulation. Ulcers are open sores in the skin that may bleed or weep clear fluid or pus. Ulcers are often slow to heal, or may heal and then recur depending on the severity of circulatory problems.
