040 68334455
WhatsApp
Patient Portal
Home Care
Buerger Disease: Causes, Signs, and Treatment
Buerger Disease, also known as thromboangiitis obliterans, is a rare condition that primarily affects the blood vessels in the arms and legs. This disease can lead to restricted blood flow, causing damage to tissues and potentially leading to serious complications. The impact of Buerger Disease on health is significant, as it can impair the body's ability to efficiently transport oxygen and nutrients to various parts of the body. This can result in pain, ulcers, and in severe cases, tissue death. Managing this condition is crucial to prevent further complications and maintain overall wellbeing.
What are the Symptoms of Buerger Disease?
Buerger Disease typically presents with symptoms affecting the blood vessels in the arms and legs.
- Pain in the hands and feet
- Pale or red discoloration of the skin
- Swelling in the hands and feet
- Skin ulcers or sores
- Gangrene (tissue death)
- Cold hands and feet
- Numbness or tingling in the extremities
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
Get Second OpinionCauses of Buerger Disease
Buerger Disease is primarily caused by longterm tobacco use, which leads to inflammation and blood vessel blockages in the arms and legs.
- Smoking
- Genetic factors
- Autoimmune reactions
Types of Buerger Disease
Buerger Disease can manifest in various forms affecting different parts of the body, leading to distinct symptoms and complications.
- Thromboangiitis Obliterans (TAO): Also known as Buerger's disease, it is a rare condition that causes inflammation and blood vessel blockages in the limbs.
- Acute Ischemic Limb: A severe form of Buerger's disease characterized by sudden lack of blood flow to the limbs, leading to tissue damage and potential amputation.
- Chronic Ischemic Limb: In this type, individuals experience ongoing reduced blood supply to the limbs, causing pain, ulcers, and difficulty in wound healing.
- Critical Limb Ischemia: A severe stage of Buerger's disease marked by severe blockages in the arteries leading to critical lack of blood flow to the limbs.
- Phlebitis: In some cases, Buerger's disease can also affect the veins, leading to inflammation and clot formation, known as phlebitis.
Risk Factors
The risk factors for Buerger Disease include tobacco use, particularly smoking, which is the primary cause of the condition.
- Smoking
- Young to middleaged men
- Genetic predisposition
- Tobacco use
- Prior history of Raynaud's phenomenon or frostbite
- Autoimmune conditions
Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.
Schedule Your Appointment
Diagnosis of Buerger Disease
Buerger Disease is typically diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and specific tests that help to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms.
- Physical examination
- Doppler ultrasound
- Angiography
- Blood tests
- MRI
- Biopsy
Treatment for Buerger Disease
Buerger Disease is typically managed through a combination of lifestyle changes and medical interventions to alleviate symptoms and slow down the progression of the condition.
Smoking Cessation:
- The most critical aspect of managing Buerger Disease is quitting smoking to halt disease progression and improve symptoms.
Medications:
- Prescribed medications like vasodilators and antiplatelet agents may be used to alleviate symptoms and improve blood flow in patients with Buerger Disease.
Exercise and Lifestyle Changes:
- Regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help improve circulation, reduce symptoms, and promote overall wellbeing in individuals with Buerger Disease.
Avoiding Cold Temperatures:
- Patients with Buerger Disease should avoid exposure to cold temperatures to prevent vasoconstriction and worsening of symptoms.
Surgery:
- In severe cases where blood flow is significantly compromised, surgical interventions like sympathectomy or bypass surgery may be considered to improve circulation and alleviate symptoms in patients with Buerger Disease.
Still have questions? Speak with our experts now!
040-68334455Frequently Asked Questions
What is Buerger Disease?
Buerger Disease, also known as thromboangiitis obliterans, is a rare disease that causes inflammation and blood clotting in the small and mediumsized arteries and veins of the arms and legs.
Who is at risk for developing Buerger Disease?
Buerger Disease primarily affects young male smokers, although it can also occur in women and nonsmokers.
What are the symptoms of Buerger Disease?
Symptoms of Buerger Disease include pain in the arms or legs, ulcers or sores on the skin, cold extremities, and decreased blood flow leading to tissue damage.
How is Buerger Disease diagnosed?
Diagnosis of Buerger Disease involves a physical examination, medical history review, imaging tests like angiography, and sometimes a biopsy of affected tissue.
What is the treatment for Buerger Disease?
Treatment for Buerger Disease focuses on stopping tobacco use, managing symptoms with medications to improve blood flow, and in severe cases, surgery may be required to remove damaged tissue or improve blood flow.
Feeling unwell?
Request a callback!
