Buerger's disease is an odd name for a blood disease that causes a blockage of the small and medium-sized arteries found throughout the body. Also known as thromboangiitis obliterans, the condition is caused by an inflammation of blood vessels.In most cases, the arteries of the arms and legs are afflicted with this condition, which is experienced typically by men between the ages of 20 and 40 who are also heavy smokers. In recent years however, more women are also being diagnosed with the disease, though they are most often in their 50s.While there are no specific preventative measures that may protect against Buerger's Disease, risks are known to increase for cigarette smokers or through use of smokeless tobacco.Learn identify symptoms of Buerger's disease in order to receive prompt treatment and to help prevent complications such as blood blot formation, ulcers and in severe cases, even amputation.
Instructions
1. Be on the alert for sensations of numbness in the toes, fingers, feet, hands, arms or legs. This is often the first indication that blood circulation or flow has been compromised or interrupted.
2. Pay attention to pain in the feet or legs during normal daily activities such as walking or while exercising. While pain may be felt in the fingers, hands or arms, it is most commonly found in the lower extremities due to inadequate blood flow. If left untreated, the pain will worsen as the condition worsens.
3. Watch for signs of Raynaud Syndrome in the hands, which causes them to turn either red or a bluish tint when they are exposed to cold. This symptom produces the color change much as would occur if you were exposed to severe cold such as snow, even though you are indoors.
4. Look at the extremities and watch for any signs of open sores or ulcers that are slow to heal. These sores may worsen and become infected, which may lead to gangrene if left unattended. These ulcers are most commonly found on the fingers and toes.
Tags: arms legs, Buerger Disease, Buerger disease, commonly found, hands arms, most commonly