Numerous conditions can cause poor circulation in the hands and feet. According to the Franklin Institute--the oldest science education center in the United States--the circulatory system is comprised of the heart, lungs and blood vessels. In some people, circulation or blood flow to the extremities, especially the hands and the feet, is reduced. Heart, lung or blood vessel problems or disorders are the most common cause of decreased extremity circulation.
COPD
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can cause poor circulation in the hands and feet. According to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, COPD is a progressive disease that causes breathing difficulties. The most common cause of COPD, states the NHLBI, is long-term tobacco consumption. Other possible causes of this condition include lung irritants, such as air pollution, chemical fumes and dust. COPD describes several different conditions, including emphysema, chronic bronchitis and chronic asthmatic bronchitis. Possible signs and symptoms associated with COPD include poor circulation in the extremities, shortness of breath, wheezing, chronic coughing and respiratory infections. According to a 2007 study by A. Boussuges and colleagues published in the journal "Clinical Physiology and Functional Imaging," people with COPD experience a significant decrease in extremity circulation.
Peripheral Vascular Disease
Peripheral vascular disease, also known as peripheral arterial disease, can cause poor circulation in the hands and feet. MayoClinic.com states that peripheral vascular disease is a common circulatory problem characterized by narrowed arteries and decreased blood flow to the extremities, including the hands and feet. Arteries are blood vessels that transport blood from the heart to the body's tissues and organs. According to MayoClinic.com, peripheral artery disease may indicate widespread accumulation of plaque--a combination of fatty and fibrous materials-- in the arteries. Common signs and symptoms associated with peripheral vascular disease include decreased circulation in the hands and feet, cold extremities, reduced pulse strength in the extremities, cramping in the lower extremity muscles following physical exertion and sores on the feet that fail to heal in a timely manner or at all.
Heart Failure
Heart failure can cause impaired circulation to the hands and feet. According to the Texas Heart Institute, a Houston, Texas-based not-for-profit cardiology and heart center, heart failure means that a person's heart is not pumping well enough to deliver oxygenated blood to his tissues, including his hands and feet. Heart failure develops gradually, usually over a span of years. Certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing heart failure, such as previous heart attacks, coronary artery disease, elevated blood pressure, an irregular heartbeat and diseases of the heart valves. Common signs and symptoms associated with heart failure include decreased circulation in the hands and feet, shortness of breath, weakness and fatigue, ankle swelling, a decreased ability to exercise and a rapid or irregular heartbeat. The Texas Heart Institute states that approximately 400,000 Americans develop heart failure every year.
References
- Franklin Institute: Circulatory System--The Circle of Blood
- National Heart Lung and Blood Institute: What Is COPD?
- "Clinical Physiology and Functional Imaging"; Alterations in the Peripheral Circulation; A. Boussuges, et al.; September 2007
- MayoClinic.com: Peripheral Artery Disease
- Texas Heart Institute: Heart Failure
