It is the inflammation and thrombosis (Clotting) of the small and medium blood vessels which are progressive in nature. Seen between the age groups of 20 to 40 years. Males are more prone to the disease. It is associated with strong use of tobacco products. Amputation is the last option if the condition worsens. Sleep disturbances occurs due to severe pain at night.
WHAT IS BUERGER’S DISEASE?
It is a disease condition which causes inflammation of medium and small sized blood vessels of legs and arms. Vasculitis occurs, i.e inflammation of blood vessels leading to narrowing of blood vessels causing formation of small blood clots thus causing blockage. This blockage leads to pain eventually leading to damage and death of tissues in hands and feet.
CAUSES OF BUERGER’S DISEASE:
It is still unknown, but tobacco use is one among the major factors. It triggers the immune response leading to vasculitis and ischaemic changes on distal parts of limbs.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF BUERGER’S DISEASE:
Chronic inflammation and thrombosis of arteries and veins of the limbs.
Severe pain at rest and while walking (intermitted claudication). Pain worsens at night.
Due to impaired circulation the person will be sensitive to cold.
Color change to cyanotic blue to reddish blue in extremities and skin becomes shiny.
Ulceration and gangrene of extremities if the condition worsens and later leading to amputation.
UNDERSTANDING BUERGER’S DISEASE IN AYURVEDA:
Buerger’s disease is considered as one of the raktha pradoshaja vikara where vata and rakta are involved. Treatment line aims at eradicating the basic pathology by proper medications,life style changes and certain procedures that helps to eradicate the cause and corrects the damage that has already happened.