Circulatory disorders in arms and legs
Circulatory disorders occur significantly more frequently in the legs than in the arms. In many cases arteriosclerosis leads to a worsened blood circulation. In the case of arteriosclerosis, deposits or calcifications lead to a narrowing of the vessel and a more difficult blood flow.
Since arteriosclerosis occurs throughout the entire body, it is not untypical that several parts of the body are affected by poor circulation. Arteriosclerosis increases chronically over the years.Arteriosclerosis is mainly aggravated by smoking, high blood pressure and diabetes mellitus. But also too high blood lipid values contribute to the formation of arteriosclerosis.
The disease that develops as a result is called pAVK (peripheral arterial occlusive arterial disease). It usually manifests itself in the legs. In rare cases, however, the arms may also be affected. Depending on the severity of the disease, it causes pain in the legs after a certain walking distance, which then forces the person affected to stop. In colloquial language, it is also known as shop window disease.
Circulatory disorder only on one arm – right or left
There is usually no difference between circulatory disorders of the right and left arm. All causes treated here can affect both arms. During pregnancy the vascular system is also confronted with extensive changes from normal.
The blood volume and heart rate increase. The red blood cells also multiply, but not to the same extent as the blood volume increases. As a result, there are relatively fewer red blood cells that transport oxygen.
Finally, the coagulation system is strengthened to keep blood loss after birth as low as possible. During pregnancy, the hands are often affected mainly at night. This is due to carpal tunnel syndrome, which is described in more detail in the “Hand” section.
Diagnostics of circulatory disorders in the arm
To find the cause, first an exact anamnesis is taken, for example to inquire about risk factors for arteriosclerosis. The time and duration as well as triggers of the symptoms can also provide an initial indication. With an ultrasound and a Doppler examination, the permeability and flow behavior of veins and arteries can be depicted.
Obstacles are detected. If necessary, a CT or MRI examination with contrast medium in the vessels can also be performed. For example, to exclude an additional rib as the cause of the circulatory disorder, an X-ray image can be helpful. In Raynaud’s syndrome, a cold provocation can be used to trigger a seizure and secure the connection.
