Ischemia

Ischemia is the lack of blood supply to the heart muscles or to a certain organ or body part such as the brain, intestines, and legs. This is often caused by blocked arteries and may lead to stroke or heart attack.

For instance, if there is a buildup of fat in the arteries leading to the heart, the blood flow becomes slower which may then lead to irregular heartbeat and this may worsen into heart failure. Some people with ischemia do not experience symptoms; those who have cardiac ischemia may complain with chest, neck, jaw, shoulder, and/or arm pain, shortness of breath, unexplained sweating, vomiting, and fatigue.

The symptoms of brain ischemia include headache with dizziness or vomiting, fainting, weakness or numbness, slurred speech, and difficulties in understanding speech.

The symptoms of intestinal ischemia include severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, blood in stool, bloating, and vomiting. The symptoms of limb ischemia include the affected extremity’s coldness, weakness, pain, smooth skin, and sores which won’t heal. This condition may be prevented by maintaining a healthy lifestyle.