Signs & Symptoms of Buerger's Disease By Luanne Kelchner, eHow Contributor

y y y y

Print this article

Related Searches:
y y

Diagnosis Symptoms Signs and Symptoms 1.

o

Buerger's Disease is a rare condition that affects the veins and arteries in the arms, legs, hands and feet. The condition causes blood vessels to swell and clots to form, blocking the flow of blood to the arms and legs. The condition causes gangrene in the affected areas and may result in amputation. Smokers and those who use tobacco are at a greater risk for the condition. The condition has several http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/buergersdisease/DS00807/METHOD=print&DSECTION=all

Thromboangiitis Obliterans (Buerger s Disease)

Definition  Thromboangiitis obliterans is a disorder that leads to obstruction of the blood vessels of the hands and feet. The blood vessels become constricted or totally obstructed because of the inflammation and clots which reduces the availability of blood to the tissues. Thromboangiitis obliterans almost always affects men, 20 to 40 years old, who have a history of smoking or chewing tobacco. Risk Factors 

Clinical manifestations Weakness in Hands and Feet  The lack of blood flow to the arms, legs, hands and feet can cause pain and weakness in the afflicted limbs. The hands and feet may experience tingling in the early stages. Buerger's Disease is a progressive disease, and larger

areas of the arms and legs also become afflicted with decreased blood flow and pain symptoms. Swelling  Patients with Buerger's Disease experience swelling in the hands and feet. Inflammation occurs in blood vessels near the surface of the skin as well. Phlebitis, or inflammation of veins, is one of the early signs of the disease. Sores  As blood flow decreases, the skin becomes ulcerated. Without blood flow to the affected areas, the skin will decay and gangrene occurs. Patients may require amputation of the decayed areas to stop the progression of gangrene. Discoloration  Hands and feet are sensitive to cold temperatures in patients with Buerger's Disease. The hands and feet may turn white, blue and then red in these patients. Buerger's Disease patients should avoid cold and hot temperatures to avoid injury to the limbs. Patients are also advised to avoid injury to the afflicted limbs. The restricted flow of blood to these areas of the body restricts healing. Blood Clots  The inflammation of vessels and veins leads to the formation of blood clots in patients.

Other sign & symptoms include:  Pain that may come and go in your legs and feet or your arms and hands. This pain typically occurs when you use your hands or feet and eases when you stop activity (claudication).  Fingers and toes that turn pale when exposed to cold (Raynaud's phenomenon).

Complication  Gangrene

If Buerger's disease worsens, blood flow to your arms and legs decreases. This is due to blockages that make it hard for blood to reach the tips of your fingers and toes. Tissues that don't receive blood don't get the oxygen and nutrients they need to survive. This can cause the skin and tissue on the ends of your fingers and toes to die (gangrene). Signs and symptoms of gangrene include black or blue skin, a loss of feeling in the affected finger or toe, and a foul smell from the affected area. Gangrene is a serious condition that usually requires amputation of the affected finger or toe.