I know we just touched on this a moment ago, but because I know those purple blotches on your arms have been on your mind, I want to give you a couple of simple, at-home "science tests" you can do right now to prove to yourself that your circulation is actually doing a fantastic job.
When we worry about our veins, it is usually because we are afraid the blood isn't flowing properly. But you don't need an ultrasound to check your circulation! You can use a little bit of biology to check it yourself in about 10 seconds.
Here are two easy ways to test your circulation at home, plus a quick reminder of how to tell the difference between harmless aging veins and the ones that actually need a doctor.
🩺 Two At-Home "Circulation Checks"
If you are worried that the veins appearing on your arms or legs mean poor circulation, try these two simple tests:
1. The "Fingernail Blanch" Test (Capillary Refill)
This is a test doctors use to check how fast your heart is pumping blood to your extremities.
- How to do it: Hold your hand up and look at your fingernails. Press down hard on the tip of one fingernail with your other finger until the pink color turns white.
- The Science: You are temporarily pushing the blood out of the tiny capillaries under the nail.
- The Result: Let go. Your nail should turn pink again in less than 2 seconds. If it pops right back to a healthy pink, your micro-circulation is excellent! Your heart is pumping efficiently, and your blood vessels are clear.
2. The "Temperature" Test
