Mesenteric Ischemia

Mesenteric ischemia is the result of blockages in the blood vessels that supply arterial blood to the mesenteric organs (stomach, colon, large and small intestine, and liver).  When one or more of the mesenteric arteries are narrowed or blocked, this decreases the blood flow and can deprive the affected areas of oxygen and nutrients. This can  compromise the organs leading to pain, perforation, or in extreme cases, organ failure.

Mesenteric ischemia can be either acute or chronic. With acute mesenteric ischemia, symptoms may develop rapidly and require emergency surgery or intervention. In the case of chronic mesenteric ischemia, symptoms manifest gradually over time but may develop into an acute condition without warning.

The most common form of visceral artery disease is chronic mesenteric ischemia (insufficient blood flow to the large and small intestines). If this condition progresses too far without being checked, intestinal tissues may become gangrenous and even die from the lack of blood flow.

The cause for ischemia, in general, is arterial narrowing and blockage. In mesenteric ischemia the cause is the same, but the narrowing or blockages occur in the mesenteric arteries that deliver blood to the mesenteric organs.  Mesenteric ischemia will not get better on its own there is an urgent need for immediate medical treatment.  If any of the risk factors listed below apply to you, getting evaluated and treated by a vascular specialist or vascular surgeon like Dr. Tahara should be an immediate priority.

There are a number of risk factors for mesenteric ischemia, including:

• If you are a smoker
• Individuals over 60 years of age are at greater risk
• If you are overweight or obese
• If you have high blood pressure or high cholesterol
• If you have a family history coronary heart disease

Common symptoms associated with mesenteric ischemia include:

• Severe stomach pain within an hour of eating, often accompanied by nausea or vomiting
• Weight loss — often patients will eat less as a direct response to the pain
• Diarrhea, flatulence, and/or constipation

If you begin to experience any of the symptoms above, DO NOT WAIT to be evaluated by a vascular surgeon or vascular specialist! Ischemic conditions require immediate medical attention and Dr. Tahara can help you.