Are You Experiencing Poor Circulation? Dr. Kaywaan Khan Shares 5 Tips to Improve It

As the weather turns colder and temperatures drop, poor circulation in the body can become more noticeable, especially in the hands and feet. Many signs of circulation problems can be subtle, but it’s important to identify them early in order to address the underlying causes and improve your well-being. That’s why we spoke to Harley Street Private GP at Hannah London, Dr Kaywaan Khan, who shares the warning signs of poor circulation and how to properly address each symptom effectively.  

1. Pale Skin 

When blood flow to the skin is reduced, it can cause the skin to appear pale or have a blue-ish hue. This is because there are fewer red blood cells, which carry oxygen and give the skin its colour. As well as this, poor circulation can make the skin look dry, dull and lifeless. Booking in for a blood test is the best way for a healthcare professional to check whether there are any  

underlying issues contributing to changes in skin colour. A blood test can help identify conditions such as anaemia or vitamin deficiencies that may be affecting your skin’s appearance. Being able to diagnose the problem quickly means they can provide treatment quickly. Private GP services can get the results back to you in 48 hours, for peace of mind and give you timely intervention if necessary.  

2. Hair Loss 

Poor circulation can prevent your hair follicles getting the nutrients and oxygen they need. This can result in weak, thin, and brittle hair, eventually leading to hair loss. While there are various causes of hair loss, poor blood flow is often a contributing factor, particularly in cold weather or for those with certain medical conditions that affect circulation. If you’re suffering from hair loss, I would recommend Scalp Mesotherapy, which are microinjections of vitamins and minerals directly into the scalp to stimulate hair growth. This minimally invasive therapy helps strengthen the hair, improve hair density, and promote healthier growth. 

3. Varicose Veins 

Varicose veins are a common sign of poor circulation, especially in the legs. They happen when your veins’ valves weaken, causing blood to pool instead of flow back to the heart efficiently. This buildup of blood causes twisted, swollen veins beneath the skin’s surface, which are blue or purple in colour. These veins, which are most frequently located close to the ankles and feet, might hurt, ache or feel heavy. If left untreated, varicose veins can worsen over time, so early treatment is essential. A non-invasive procedure called High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) can target and enhances circulation in the affected areas using ultrasonic radiation. By stimulating tissue repair and collagen production, HIFU helps to reduce the appearance of varicose veins and promote healthier blood flow, easing painful symptoms and preventing further complications. 

4. Tiredness 

Feeling unusually tired or sluggish may indicate that your body isn’t receiving the oxygen and nutrients it needs due to poor circulation. When blood flow is restricted, your muscles and tissues lack the energy to function at optimal levels, leading to excessive fatigue. As well as this, poor circulation can affect your body’s ability to regulate temperature, leaving you feeling colder than usual. This can make you less inclined to move, which contributes to persistent tiredness throughout the day. Ensure your body is kept warm and properly hydrated, as these are the most common causes of lethargy. Aim to drink 8-10 glasses of water daily, which can include water-rich foods, sparkling water, and herbal teas. When stepping outside, ensure you are kept warm with a woolly hat, knitted gloves, thick socks and a plush scarf on top of your winter coat. Try to limit alcohol consumption, which dehydrates your body and worsens fatigue. For a quick hydration boost and to detoxify the body, you could also opt for a IV drip treatment packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants with ingredients like Vitamin C, B-complex, and glutathione. When administered by a medical professional, IV drips can safely re-energise the body and help address dehydration. 

5. Feeling Cold 

Whilst it’s normal to feel colder as temperatures drop in winter, it’s important to monitor how your body responds to ensure that prolonged coldness or discomfort isn’t a sign of poor circulation or an underlying issue. For example, in diseases like Raynaud’s syndrome, patients report white or blue fingers and toes in reaction to the cold or stress. Along with changes in skin colour, symptoms like numbness, tingling, and frequent pain can be a warning sign of poor circulation which may cause prolonged discomfort. Massage therapy can help increase blood flow for better circulation and relax tense muscles, making it easier for the body to maintain warmth in the colder months. Following your session with time in a sauna is a great way to stimulate heat shock proteins that provide warmth in the winter and help combat illness.