Buerger's Disease

Buerger's Disease

Buerger’s disease is a rare disease characterized by clotting and inflammation of the arteries and veins of the hands and feet. It causes the arteries and veins to become blocked, which cuts off the supply of blood. This eventually destroys the tissue. It can lead to gangrene of the fingers and toes.

Buerger’s disease causes pain and enlarged, red veins. The pain increases with activity or exposure to cold. It often causes numbness and tingling. It affects at least two limbs. Emotional stress can worsen the symptoms.

Buerger’s disease mostly affects men aged 20-40. It is associated with moderate to heavy tobacco use. Buerger’s disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by tobacco. It is most common in Asia, India, and the Middle East.

There is no cure for Buerger’s disease. Gentle, warm massage may help increase circulation. Surgery may be used to cut certain nerves of the affected areas to reduce pain.

The most effective treatment for Buerger’s disease is to quit smoking. Those who are diagnosed with this disease and continue to smoke will eventually need the affected fingers and toes to be amputated. In severe cases, arteries and veins in other parts of the body become affected.