Thromboangiitis obliterans also called Buerger's diseaseis an inflammation of the blood vessels. Any blood vessel can become inflamed. It usually occurs when arteries are blocked in the feet and hands. It causes pain and tissue damage.
The disease most commonly affects Asian and Middle Eastern men aged 40-45 years who use tobacco products heavily, such as chewing tobacco.
What is Buerger's disease?
Buerger's disease It is a rare disease that occurs in the arteries and veins of the arms and legs. Buerger's diseaseBlood vessels become inflamed, swollen, and clogged with blood clots.
Congestion and clot formation damage skin tissues. Over time, it destroys tissues and can lead to infection and gangrene.
Buerger's disease It first appears on the hands and feet. It eventually spreads to larger areas of the arms and legs.
Legs are more affected than arms. Affected persons experience cramps in their legs while walking. Cramps sometimes cause limping.
Buerger's disease Almost everyone diagnosed smokes or chews tobacco. Buerger's diseaseThe only way to treat cancer and prevent its progression is to stop using any tobacco product. In those who do not let go, all or part of a limb can be amputated.
In very rare cases, non-smokers buerger's disease has developed.
Buerger's diseasethe cause is unknown. Heavy smoking increases the risk of developing this disease.
It is thought that chemicals in tobacco can irritate the lining of blood vessels, causing them to swell.
What are the symptoms of Buerger's disease?
Buerger's diseaseIt starts with swelling of the veins and the formation of blood clots in the blood vessels. It restricts blood flow and prevents the blood from fully circulating in the tissues. Therefore, it causes tissue death because the tissues are deprived of nutrients and oxygen.
Buerger's disease It begins with pain in the affected areas, followed by weakness. Buerger's diseaseThe most prominent symptoms are:
Pain that comes and goes in the hands, feet, legs, and arms
Open sores on feet or fingers
inflammation of the veins
Tingling, numbness in hands or feet.
Pale, reddish, blue colored hands or feet.
Fingers and toes that turn pale when exposed to coldRaynaud phenomenon).
What are the risk factors for Buerger's disease?
Tobacco use
chronic gum disease
Gender - It is more common in men than women.
Age – The disease first appears in those younger than 45 years of age.
What are the complications of Buerger's disease?
Buerger's disease if it gets worse, blood flow to the arms and legs is reduced. This is because the blockage makes it harder for blood to reach the tips of the fingers and toes. Tissues that do not receive blood cannot receive the oxygen and nutrients they need to survive.
This can lead to the death of the tissue at the tips of the fingers and toes, namely gangrene. Symptoms of gangrene include a blue or black coloration of the skin, loss of sensation in the affected finger, and a foul odor from the affected area.
Gangrene is a serious condition that requires amputation of the affected toe.
In rare cases, Buerger's disease paralysis or heart attackwhat could cause.
No treatment Buerger's diseaseAlthough it cannot cure the disease, the most effective way to prevent the disease from worsening is to stop using tobacco products. Even a few cigarettes a day can worsen the disease.
Other treatments
Buerger's disease There are other treatment options for But it has no effect without quitting smoking. Other treatment options are:
Skin care: Buerger's diseaseIt is necessary to pay attention to the fingers and toes. Always check the skin on the arms and legs for cuts and scrapes. If you have a cut and you don't feel pain, you may have a loss of sensation. Protect fingers and toes and do not leave them out in the cold.
Preventing infections: If the blood flow to the limbs is slowed, the body cannot resist infections. Minor cuts and scrapes can easily turn into serious infections. Clean any cuts with soap and water, wrap with a clean bandage. Check constantly to make sure it's getting better. See a doctor if they get worse or get better slowly.
Gum care: Buerger's diseaseGo to the dentist regularly to prevent the formation of gum disease due to gum disease.
