BUERGER'S DISEASE - CAUSES, SYMPTOMS, AND TREATMENT

It more commonly affects the legs than the arms, with the initial symptom often being severe pain in the distal parts (parts far from the torso - hands and feet) during periods of rest. Patients may also experience cramps during walking, which can lead to limping. In rare cases, ulcers may develop on the extremities, along with numbness, tingling, and reduced blood flow in the fingers when exposed to low temperatures. In severe cases, the disease can lead to inflammation and blockage of veins and even tissue death (gangrene) in the affected limbs.

The exact cause of Buerger's Disease is still unknown, but it is most commonly associated with heavy tobacco use. Smoking is considered the primary trigger for its onset and development. Existing research has shown that quitting smoking significantly influences the course of the disease and is one of the main factors for recovery.

Vacuum Therapy for Buerger's Disease Treatment at Fizionova

At the Fizionova Center, we successfully treat numerous diseases that directly or indirectly limit freedom of movement. Buerger's Disease is one such condition, and among other treatments, we recommend hypobaric therapy to our patients to address the problems arising from this disease. This method involves applying a low-pressure vacuum to the hands and feet, which has proven to be highly effective after various injuries and fractures and in cases of Buerger's Disease.

Hypobaric/Vacuum therapy generates alternating pulsed pressure changes in the extremities, leading to improved circulation, accelerated oxygenation, and faster oxygen transfer to tissues. The therapy is carried out using a special vacuum bag and ventures, with different applicators available for treatment on various surfaces and even hard-to-reach parts of the body. The goal of hypobaric (vacuum) therapy for Buerger's Disease is to significantly reduce pain and swelling, with relief often noticeable after the first treatment.

Buerger's Disease and Atherosclerosis

Buerger's Disease and atherosclerosis are often confused, although they are different conditions.

Buerger's Disease typically starts before the age of 40, while atherosclerosis generally begins after the age of 40. Buerger's Disease affects the distal parts of the extremities and veins, while atherosclerosis typically involves larger arteries and the lower extremities. The main risk factor for Buerger's Disease is smoking, while atherosclerosis is influenced by genetic factors, hypertension, obesity, and smoking.

Disease Progression

The disease begins under the influence of exogenous factors (smoking, infection). Accumulation of antibodies and the formation of immune complexes in the walls of blood vessels occur. Activation of the complement system (a component of the human immune system) leads to structural changes in the blood vessel walls, inflammation cells accumulate, and vascular inflammation occurs. As a result of these processes, the blood vessel wall thickens, its lumen narrows, and blood flow is reduced. If the disease continues to progress, the blood vessel is completely occluded, disrupting blood flow through the affected segment. Tissue distal to the site of occlusion begins to deteriorate, leading to gangrene. If the disease is diagnosed late, in an advanced stage, amputation of the affected limb may be necessary.

Symptoms

The first sign of Buerger's Disease is often pain in the hands or feet, which can extend to the arms and legs. Pain may occur during activity or at rest. Stress or having a cold can intensify the pain. Other symptoms that may be present include:

• Pale, red, or bluish fingers on the hands.
• Cold hands or feet.
• Pain in the hands and feet that may also feel like tingling or pins and needles.
• Pain in the legs, ankles, or feet while walking, often in the arch of the foot.
• Skin changes or small painful sores on the fingers of the hands or feet.

Causes of Buerger's Disease

Although smoking is a significant factor in the development of Buerger's Disease, the exact cause is still unknown, and it is unclear how tobacco contributes to the condition. One hypothesis is that chemicals in tobacco irritate the mucous membrane of blood vessels, leading to swelling. There is also suspicion that some people may be genetically predisposed to developing Buerger's Disease, and it could involve an autoimmune response where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue.

How Is the Diagnosis Established?

The diagnosis is based on the patient's medical history and physical examination. Treatment for Buerger's Disease involves quitting smoking. Additionally, measures such as avoiding cold and medications that constrict blood vessels are needed. Patients must also take precautions against thermal, chemical, and mechanical injuries to the extremities.