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Signs & Symptoms of Buerger's Disease

Buerger’s Disease is a rare condition that affects the veins and arteries in the arms, legs, hands and feet. The condition causes blood vessels to swell and clots to form, blocking the flow of blood to the arms and legs. The condition causes gangrene in the affected areas and may result in amputation. Smokers and those who use tobacco are at a greater risk for the condition. The condition has several signs and symptoms.

  1. Weakness in Hands and Feet

    • The lack of blood flow to the arms, legs, hands and feet can cause pain and weakness in the afflicted limbs, according to the Johns Hopkins Vasculitis Center. The hands and feet may experience tingling in the early stages. Buerger’s Disease is a progressive disease, and larger areas of the arms and legs also become afflicted with decreased blood flow and pain symptoms.

    Swelling

    • Patients with Buerger’s Disease experience swelling in the hands and feet, according to the Mayo Clinic. Inflammation occurs in blood vessels near the surface of the skin as well. Phlebitis, or inflammation of veins, is one of the early signs of the disease.

    Sores

    • As blood flow decreases, the skin becomes ulcerated. Without blood flow to the affected areas,the skin will decay and gangrene occurs. Patients may require amputation of the decayed areas to stop the progression of gangrene. Smoking and the use of tobacco must end to stop the progression of the disease. There is no effective medication or treatment for Buerger’s Disease. Patients who continue to use tobacco face an increase in symptoms, with larger areas of the body becoming affected. Tobacco is the only known factor that is present in all patients with Buerger’s Disease, although it is unknown what causes the disease, according to the Mayo Clinic.

    Discoloration

    • Hands and feet are sensitive to cold temperatures in patients with Buerger’s Disease. The hands and feet may turn white, blue and then red in these patients. Buerger’s Disease patients should avoid cold and hot temperatures to avoid injury to the limbs. Patients are also advised to avoid injury to the afflicted limbs. The restricted flow of blood to these areas of the body restricts healing.

    Blood Clots

    • The inflammation of vessels and veins leads to the formation of blood clots in patients. Doctors may take steps to reduce the symptoms of the condition by dissolving blood clots, according to the Mayo Clinic.

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