Buerger’s disease is a rare disease that inflames and blocks the small and medium-sized blood vessels. It is also known as thromboangiitis obliterans. Usually, this disease presents with the blockage of arteries to the hands and feet stopping the blood flow, eventually leading to clots. This destroys the skin tissues and leads to infection.
This disease is correlated with the use of tobacco. Almost everyone diagnosed with Buerger’s disease are those who smoke cigarettes, use or used tobacco products, including chewing of tobacco.
Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of Buerger’s disease include
- Pain in the arms and legs or in the hands and feet that might come and go, and occur when you are active (claudication) or at rest
- Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
- Pale toes or fingers when in cold temperatures
- Inflammation in the veins (a sign of blood clot)
- Painful and open sores on the toes and fingers
Causes
The exact cause of Buerger’s disease is still unknown. However, as per medical resources, the risk of developing this disease increases with the heavy use of tobacco. It is also not obvious as to how the use of tobacco or tobacco products increases this risk. Some experts think that chemicals in the tobacco products might irritate the blood vessels, making them swell. While some think that it might be caused by an autoimmune response where the immune system mistakenly attacks the healthy tissues thinking of tobacco as a foreign substance. It is also thought that some people might have a genetic predisposition to this disease.
People with chronic gum disease are more prone to the development of this disease, however, the reason for this correlation remains unknown.
Treatment
There is no cure for Buerger’s disease. Quitting the use of all tobacco products is the only effective way to stop the progression of the disease. Sometimes, avoiding cold weather can help in controlling the pain. Other treatment options might boost the blood flow and ease the pain include
- Medications such as vasodilators to dilate blood vessels, improve blood flow or dissolve blood clots
- Walking exercises
- Sympathectomy (surgical procedure to cut nerves to an affected area)
- Intermittent compression of your arms and legs
- Amputation in case of infection
- Spinal cord stimulation
There is no vaccine or behavior changes that can prevent people from developing this disease. However, quitting the use of tobacco can prevent the progression of the disease.
Disclaimer: The information in no way constitutes, or should be construed as medical advice. Nor is the above article an endorsement of any research findings discussed in the article an endorsement for any of the source publications.
