When the arteries that are responsible for supplying blood to your intestines start to narrow, it creates a condition commonly known as mesenteric artery stenosis. The arteries are called mesenteric arteries. As a result of the narrowing of these arteries, the blood supply to the intestines is restricted, which results in a condition called mesenteric artery ischemia.
Read on to learn more about this condition.
What Causes Mesenteric Artery Stenosis?
A buildup of plaque within arteries is the primary cause of this condition. Plaque is simply large deposits of fats that accumulate with time. It is often referred to as atherosclerosis, a condition in which the arteries start to harden because of the accumulation of sticky fat. Consequently, the blood flow to small and large intestines is reduced or blocked completely.
Complications
Blockage of blood flow is a severe condition that comes with serious consequences. If not treated in time, it can cause many complications, including the following:
Sepsis
Sepsis is a life-threatening condition. It occurs when the body starts releasing chemicals into the bloodstream to fight infections. Consequently, the body overreacts to the presence of chemicals within the blood. As a result, some changes are triggered that can potentially cause organ failure.
Permanent Bowel Damage
When the blood supply is cut short to the intestine, it can cause irreversible damage leading to the death of some bowel parts.
Death
Whether sepsis occurs or your bowel sustains irreversible damage, both conditions are severe and can end up taking your life.
Symptoms of Mesenteric Artery Stenosis
Initially, people with this condition do not feel any symptoms. However, as the disease starts to worsen, they may experience:
- Weight loss
- Rectal bleeding
- Stomachache after eating
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
Treatment
In patients without any symptoms, no treatment is needed. Living a healthy lifestyle can resolve the issue on its own. However, for those that suffer from the symptoms mentioned above, your doctor will provide you with medication or may opt for a surgical procedure to eliminate the blockage from the arteries. Generally, angioplasty is performed on patients with severe symptoms.
Preventive Care
If you don’t want to develop such a life-threatening condition, improving your lifestyle can help. Here’s what you can do:
- Avoid smoking
- Consume a healthy and well-balanced diet
- Increase physical activity
- Effectively manage conditions such as diabetes, cholesterol, and blood pressure
Get Immediate Care with Milner Vein and Vascular
If you feel you have any of the symptoms of mesenteric artery stenosis, get yourself checked immediately by a doctor. We provide exceptional treatment and care to patients with vein conditions at Milner Vein and Vascular. Call (678) 580-1149 to book your appointment today.