After so much time indoors over the past few years, some of us might have become more accustomed to a sedentary lifestyle – but do you think about the impacts of it?

Living a sedentary lifestyle poses a danger to our circulation health that should not be ignored with narrowing of the arteries and reduced blood flow leading to more serious conditions.

Societal changes in recent years have led to a more sedentary lifestyle, with our bodies subjected to extended periods of sitting and irregular physical activity.

Living a sedentary lifestyle poses a danger to our circulation health that should not be ignored with narrowing of the arteries and reduced blood flow leading to more serious conditions.

Vascular surgeon Professor A. Davies says there are 4 main signs your sedentary lifestyle is causing poor circulation. Here we explore what they are and what to do if you’re experiencing them.

1. You feel the cold more

Always wrapped up in a blanket whilst sat at your desk or in front of the TV, and it’s not the middle of winter? This could be a sign that you have poor circulation.

Being inactive for long periods of time means your metabolic rate is low and your muscles are not in use. Muscles burn energy and therefore produce more heat in the body so if you are sat still for hours on end, your bodies temperature will be significantly lower. Moving little and often is advised.

2. You regularly get pins and needles

Hate that tingling or ‘dead leg’ feeling and are unable to shake it off by changing your sitting position? There is a chance your circulation health may be poor and could be a sign of something more serious. If you are experiencing numbness or pins and needles whilst sitting neutrally, then do seek advice from a health care professional.

3. Your legs swell

Swelling or aching in the legs and ankles is very common and if often due to a problem with the veins within the circulatory system. Blood pools, unable to flow easily from the lower extremities back to your heart. This forces fluid from the blood vessels into the surrounding tissue. Swelling can also be indicative of other medical issues, so it’s always recommended that you consult a doctor.

4. You notice your hands and feet changing colour

Hands and feet changing colour in front of your eyes? Those experiencing poor circulation often see a change of colour in the extremities. Initially the skin may appear white, progressing into blue or purple.

Professor A. Davies is a Vascular Surgeon and Clinical Trial Lead for the Revitive Circulation Booster device.