The circulatory system is the body's network of blood vessels. It includes the arteries, veins and capillaries that carry blood to and from the heart. Disorders of the circulatory system are common and can be serious, it generally result in diminished flow of blood and diminished oxygen exchange to the tissues. Blood supply is also impeded in such conditions as arteriosclerosis and high blood pressure

Common Circulatory Disorders:

• High blood pressure
• Atherosclerosis is the medical term for hardening of the arteries. These stiffened arteries are usually clogged with fatty plaque.
• Clotting Abnormalities: Blood clots can clog vessels and block blood flow to the heart or brain.
• Aneurysms are balloonlike bulges form in weakened segments of the arteries, especially the aorta (body's largest artery). Weakened blood vessels can burst, causing bleeding inside the body. Many cases of aneurysms are due to congenital weakness, while others are caused by atherosclerosis and high blood pressure.
• Intermittent Claudication (Leg pain): A lack of oxygen due to inadequate blood flow causes the pain. Symptoms include severe leg pain and cramps induced by walking.

• Phlebitis is any inflammation of the vein; the large, superficial veins in the lower legs are the most commonly affected. Although painful, this type of superficial phlebitis is not as dangerous as when veins located deeper in the legs become inflamed, setting the stage for thrombophlebitis. In this condition, clots form at the site of inflammation; pieces may break away and travel to the heart and lungs.
• Raynaud's Disease: This condition is characterized by periods of numbness, tingling, and pain in the fingers and toes due to constriction or spasms in the small arteries that carry blood to the extremities. Typically, Raynaud's disease is triggered by exposure to the cold; in some individuals, however, periods of stress may trigger an attack.

Common Causes:

• Family history of vascular or heart diseases
• Pregnancy
• Illness or injury
• Long periods of sitting or standing still
• Any condition that affects the heart and blood vessels, such as diabetes or high cholesterol
• Smoking
• Obesity

Prevention and Treatment: Losing weight, eating healthy foods, exercise regularly and not smoking can help circulatory disorders but patients with severe blockages may require surgery to remove. Other treatment includes;

• Aneurysms: Following a low-fat, low-salt diet can help prevent those caused by atherosclerosis and high blood pressure. Consuming ample fresh fruit and vegetables will provide the vitamin C needed to build and maintain strong blood vessels.
• Phlebitis can be treated with aspirin and other anti-inflammatory drugs and by applying warm compresses. Clot-dissolving drugs may be administered for thrombophlebitis.
• Raynaud's disease: Avoiding exposure of the hands and feet to cold temperatures can usually prevent or minimize attacks. Not smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke is also important. Consuming foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E may help.

Recommended Food for People with Circulatory Disorder:

• Eating plenty of onions and garlic to help improve blood flow.

• A diet that includes several servings a week of fatty fish (salmon and sardines) or other sources of omega-3 fatty acids, as well as foods high in vitamin E (seeds, nuts, seafood, wheat germ, and fortified cereals) helps reduce inflammation and clot formation.
• Consume plenty of citrus and other fresh fruits and vegetables for vitamin C to maintain strong blood vessels.

Cut down on: Meat and saturated fats.