Ischemia

Ischemia refers to an insufficient supply of blood to an organ, usually due to a blocked artery. The lack of blood supply can lead to a shortage of oxygen and glucose needed for cellular metabolism (to produce ATP), resulting in tissue damage or dysfunction.

Ischemia

Ischemia HFQRS

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Causes

Ischemia typically occurs when an artery becomes blocked or narrowed, often due to the build-up of fatty deposits known as atherosclerosis. Other causes can include an embolism, thrombosis, or a vasospasm.

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Types

Ischemia can affect many parts of the body, leading to different diseases:

• Myocardial ischemia: Insufficient blood supply to the heart muscle, which can lead to angina or myocardial infarction (heart attack).
• Cerebral ischemia: Insufficient blood supply to the brain, which can lead to a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA).
• Peripheral artery disease: Insufficient blood supply to the legs, causing pain and difficulty walking.
• Mesenteric ischemia: Insufficient blood supply to the intestines, which can cause abdominal pain and other digestive problems.

Symptoms

The symptoms of ischemia vary depending on the part of the body affected but can include pain, weakness, numbness, or cramping. Symptoms can also include more severe manifestations such as heart attack or stroke if the heart or brain is involved.

Diagnosis

Ischemia can be diagnosed using various methods, including:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): This test records the electrical activity of the heart and can detect signs of myocardial ischemia.
• Angiogram: This test uses X-rays and a special dye to visualize the inside of the arteries.
• Computed tomography (CT) scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): These imaging tests can detect signs of ischemia in various organs.
• Blood tests: These can detect certain proteins in the blood that are released during tissue damage.

Treatment

Treatment aims to restore blood flow to the affected area as quickly as possible. This can be achieved through:

• Medication: Drugs like antiplatelets and anticoagulants can prevent blood clots from forming or help dissolve existing clots.
• Surgery: Procedures such as angioplasty or bypass surgery can help to restore blood flow in blocked arteries.
• Lifestyle changes: Changes such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking can help prevent the development of atherosclerosis.

See Also

• Reperfusion injury
• Hypoxia (medical)
• Myocardial infarction
• Stroke

Ischemia Resources
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