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Durchblutungsstörungen selbsttest is meant in English as a Circulatory disorders self-test.
Circulatory disorders mainly affect people over 50 years of age, with some types of circulatory disorders requiring immediate treatment. Others develop over a long time. Both acute and chronic circulatory disorders can have serious consequences.
If you are over 50 and often have pale, cold, and painful feet or hands, poor circulation may be the cause. We will tell you what circulatory disorders there are and how you can counteract them.
What Are Circulatory Disorders?
Circulatory disorders occur when the arteries, i.e., the blood vessels, no longer transport enough blood. The arteries transport the oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the body. Deposits on the vessel wall cause chronic circulatory disorders. However, the increasing constriction in the vessel reduces blood flow. This leads to symptoms, particularly during physical exertion and later, regardless of the strain.
A sudden, acute circulatory disorder occurs when a vessel is acutely blocked by a deposit that has become detached from another location.
Circulatory disorders cause many different symptoms depending on the artery affected and are therefore referred to differently by doctors depending on the location of the constriction.
Durchblutungsstörungen Selbsttest – Circulatory Disorders Self-Test
Have you ever had cold hands or feet and wondered if your circulation is OK? Circulatory problems can have many causes and often go unnoticed until severe symptoms appear. But how can you determine for yourself whether you are affected? In this blog post, you will study how to use simple self-tests to get initial indications of possible circulation problems.
We will explain why the topic is so important and which methods are available to check your circulation at home. We will also show you which steps to take if you suspect a circulatory problem and which modern diagnostic and treatment options are available. Read on for valuable tips and scientifically based information to help you monitor your health and take timely action.
Basic Self-Tests For Circulatory Disorders
Nail Bed Test
The nail bed test is a simple test that helps you check how good the blood circulation is in your hands or feet. It measures the so-called “capillary refill time,” the time it takes for the blood to flow back into the nail bed after pressure.
Directions:
Apply light pressure to the nail bed of your finger until it turns white.
Let go and watch how quickly the color returns.
Typically, the nail bed should turn pink again within 2 seconds.
If the color returns more slowly, this may indicate a circulatory disorder.
Temperature Test (Comparison Of Both Sides Of The Body)
The temperature test helps you determine if there are significant differences in blood flow to your extremities by comparing the temperature of your hands and feet.
Directions:
Place both hands parallel to each other on a smooth surface.
Pay attention to temperature differences between the two hands.
Repeat for the feet.
Significant temperature differences could indicate circulation problems.
Pallor/Discoloration Test
Unusual paleness or skin discoloration can be a sign of poor circulation. This test requires only a visual inspection of your skin.
Directions:
Observe the skin color on different parts of the body (hands, feet, face).
Look for unusual paleness or bluish discoloration.
These can be signs of poor circulation.
6-Minute Walk Test
The 6-minute walk test is a functional test that checks your physical performance and the blood circulation in your legs.
Directions:
Measure your heart rate before the test.
Walk at your typical pace for 6 minutes.
Measure your heart rate again after walking.
Watch for unusual shortness of breath or pain in your legs.
Measuring The Pulse At Different Parts Of The Body
Measuring the pulse can help you determine blood flow differences to different body parts.
Directions:
Measure your pulse on your wrist (radial pulse).
Measure your pulse in your neck (carotid pulse).
Compare the pulse rates and strengths of both locations.
Differences may indicate circulatory disorders.
Risk Factors And Early Detection
Genetic Predisposition
A family history of circulatory disorders can significantly increase the risk of circulatory disorders. If circulatory problems run in your family, you should be vigilant and conduct regular self-tests.
Lifestyle Factors
Diet: An unbalanced diet, high in saturated fats and low in fiber, can upsurge the risk of arterial blockages and, thus, circulatory problems. A diet high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fruit and vegetables, can have a preventive effect.
Exercise: Regular physical action increases blood circulation and can help reduce the risk of circulatory problems. Even daily walks or light exercise can have a positive effect.
Smoking and alcohol: Smoking narrows blood vessels and increases the risk of arterial blockages. Alcohol in excess can also damage the ship. Avoid these substances to reduce the risk.
Age-Related Risks
As we age, the risk of circulatory disorders increases because the elasticity of the blood vessels decreases, and arterial calcification can increase.
Typical Early Warning Signals
Feeling cold in the extremities: This may indicate insufficient warm blood reaching the hands and feet.
Tingling or numbness: Such sensations can indicate that the nerves in the affected areas are not receiving enough blood.
Preventive Measures
Regular exercise: Promotes blood circulation and helps keep the vessels elastic.
Balanced diet: A diet high in fats, vitamins, and minerals supports vascular health.
Modern Diagnostic Methods
Digital Self-Test Apps
Modern technologies allow you to monitor your vital signs using apps that measure pulse and oxygen saturation. These apps can provide valuable data that you can discuss with your doctor.
Smart Wearables For Blood Flow Measurement
Smartwatches can continuously monitor your heart rate, oxygen saturation, and blood flow. These wearables offer a convenient way to keep an eye on your health.
New Medical Diagnostic Procedures
Ultrasound: Doppler ultrasound helps doctors visualize blood flow in your arteries and veins and detect circulatory problems.
Blood tests: Blood tests can offer evidence of inflammation and other risk factors indicating poor circulation.
Telemedicine Options
Telemedicine options allow you to discuss your symptoms and test results with a doctor without leaving home. This can be especially useful if you need quick advice or diagnoses.
Specific Body Regions
Impaired Circulation In The Legs
Heavy legs, walking pain, or cramps can indicate peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD), a common form of impaired leg circulation.
Impaired Blood Circulation In The Head And Brain
Symptoms such as dizziness, difficulty concentrating, or headaches can indicate restricted blood flow to the brain, which in the long term can lead to more serious problems such as strokes.
Circulatory Disorders In The Internal Organs
This circulatory disorder is often more challenging to detect and usually requires medical evaluation. Symptoms can range from digestive problems to chest pain.
Poor Circulation In The Hands And Feet
Common signs are cold hands and feet, indicating insufficient blood circulation. These symptoms can occur especially during periods of rest or in cold weather.
Differences In Symptoms
Symptoms can vary depending on the body’s pretentious area, making it essential to look out for specific signs and discuss them with a doctor.
Additional Self-Help Measures
Exercise
Regular exercise is one of the most real methods of improving blood circulation. Daily walks, light jogging, or targeted gymnastics exercises can help improve blood circulation.
Dietary Recommendations
A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids (e.g., fish or flaxseed), antioxidants (e.g., berries and green vegetables), and fiber can support vascular health and improve blood circulation.
Relaxation Techniques
Techniques such as yoga, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce stress, which negatively affects blood circulation.
Heat/Cold Applications
Heat applications such as warm baths or heating pads can dilate blood vessels and increase circulation. Cold applications can help reduce swelling and improve circulation in certain areas.
Naturopathic Approaches
Herbs such as ginkgo biloba or garlic help promote blood circulation but consult a doctor before using these methods.
When To See A Doctor?
Alarm Signals
Sudden pain in the extremities that does not subside
Severe discoloration or temperature differences between the limbs
Emergency Situations
If you experience acute symptoms such as severe pain, sudden numbness, or other serious symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately.
Recommended Preventive Examinations
Regular preventive examinations are essential if you have risk factors for circulatory disorders. These examinations can help to identify and treat problems early.
Documenting Symptoms
Keep a detailed symptom diary in which you record the date, time, symptom, and intensity. This information can provide your doctor with valuable clues for diagnosis.
Conclusion
In summary, a durchblutungsstörungen selbsttest can be a helpful way to detect early signs of circulatory problems. By paying attention to symptoms such as cold extremities, numbness, or tingling and performing simple tests such as the finger pressure test, you can get initial clues about possible circulatory problems. However, it is important to stress that a self-test is not a substitute for a professional medical diagnosis. If symptoms persist or are severe, you should see a doctor.
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