Buerger's Disease

What is Buerger's Disease

Buerger's disease is a rare condition where blood vessels in the legs, and sometimes the arms, become inflamed, causing a reduction in blood flow. Clots may also form in these blood vessels, preventing the adequate flow of blood.

What are the Symptoms of Buerger's Disease

Symptoms include tenderness or pain in the feet or hands during exercise (claudication), or when at rest.

Other possible symptoms include tingling and/or numbness in the limbs, and Raynaud's phenomenon. Eventually, tissue may be damaged and destroyed. This can lead to ulcers in the skin and gangrene.

What are the Causes of Buerger's Disease

The precise cause of Buerger's disease, also known as thromboangiitis obliterans, is unknown.

It's believed that in genetically susceptible individuals, smoking triggers an autoimmune response that causes the inflammation. The symptoms occur as a result of inadequate blood supply to the tissues.

Traditional Medical Treatments for Buerger's Disease

Not smoking reduces the risk of developing Buerger's disease. Avoiding cold temperatures cuts the risk of symptoms developing in those who already have the disease.

There's no cure. The only effective treatment is to stop smoking.

If an affected individual continues to smoke, they're likely to have toes and/or fingers amputated. Infections should be treated promptly.