Why Winter Can Worsen Circulation - And What You Can Do About It?

As the weather turns colder, many people notice that their hands and feet colder, heavier, or more numb - and for those with underlying vascular conditions, winter can make circulation problems significantly worse. But why does this happen, and what can you do to protect your vascular health when the temperature drops?

How Cold Weather Affects Blood Vessels

When it’s cold outside, your body works hard to conserve heat and protect your vital organs. One way it does this is by causing your blood vessels to constrict — a process called vasoconstriction. This narrowing helps retain warmth but also reduces blood flow to the extremities, which can leave fingers and toes feeling cold and tingly.

For people with conditions like peripheral artery disease (PAD), diabetes, or chronic venous insufficiency, this reduced blood flow can worsen symptoms. You might notice more leg pain during walking (claudication), increased swelling, or slower healing of minor wounds.

Additional Winter Risks


Cold weather can also increase blood pressure and make the blood slightly thicker, raising the risk of clot formation. People who smoke, have diabetes, or high cholesterol are especially vulnerable during winter months.

How to Protect Your Circulation

Dress warmly: Layer clothing and wear insulated gloves and socks to keep extremities warm.

Stay active: Regular movement improves circulation — even short indoor walks make a difference.

Stay hydrated: Winter dehydration can worsen blood flow issues.

Manage chronic conditions: Keep up with medications and checkups.

If you notice persistent leg pain, skin discoloration, or non-healing wounds, don’t ignore them — they may be signs of a vascular condition that needs medical attention. A vascular specialist can evaluate your circulation and offer treatments to keep your blood flowing all winter long. To learn more about peripheral artery disease, click here.