Ischemia Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Understanding
Ischemia is a condition or state of lack of blood flow to certain parts of the body. As a result, the section lacks oxygen. This can occur in any part of the body.
In fact, one of the important components needed by the human body to work properly is the presence of oxygen. Oxygen is delivered to all parts of the body by both large and small blood vessels.
Ischemia can cause a deficiency of nutrients and oxygen in the tissues or organs of the body which are very necessary to help the process of cell metabolism. This condition must be treated immediately because if left unchecked it can cause cell death.
Symptom
Signs of ischemia depend on the area of the body affected, such as:
- in the heart, generally there will be symptoms of a heart attack
- in the brain, symptoms of a stroke can occur
- on the feet, usually there will be critical limb ischemia (marked by pain in the legs)
- intestine, mesenteric ischemia will occur
However, not all parts of the body that experience ischemia will show symptoms. This condition is known as silent ischemia.
Reason
Ischemia occurs due to disturbances in normal blood flow, such as:
- blockages in blood vessels, for example, due to blood clots/thrombus, air/air embolism, atherosclerosis, and others.
- constricted blood vessels/vasoconstriction
Diagnosis
In determining the diagnosis of ischemia, the doctor will conduct a series of medical interviews to find out the symptoms experienced by the sufferer. In addition, an examination of the affected body area can also be carried out.
A complete physical examination plus supporting examinations such as a CT scan or MRI in a section will show areas of blood vessels that are blocked or narrowed. Apart from that, the doctor can also suggest an electrocardiogram and echocardiogram examination, if ischemia is known to occur in the heart. The goal is to determine oxygen levels and heart performance.
Meanwhile, for ischemia that occurs in the intestine, apart from a CT scan or MRI, the doctor may suggest endoscopy, colonoscopy, or ultrasonography. The goal is to get a clear picture of the condition of the intestine and the level of oxygen adequacy in the intestine.
In ischemia in the brain, MRI and CT scans can be done as supporting examinations. However, an echocardiographic examination is usually also needed to determine the possibility of blood clots (blood clots) in the brain. These clots could have come from the heart.
Treatment
Treatment measures will depend on the cause of the ischemia. If it is caused by a blockage, then the blockage, according to the area where the blockage occurs, needs to be treated first so that blood can flow again smoothly.
In addition, anticoagulant drugs may be given to prevent the occurrence or enlargement of blood clots. Generally, this treatment is required for a long period of time in cases of acute ischemia.
Surgery is performed to remove lumps of mass that are blocking blood circulation. In addition, surgery can be done on blood vessels to restore organs.
Prevention
In some conditions and areas, ischemia is difficult to prevent. One of the suggestions that you can do is to maintain the health and smooth circulation of blood vessels. Maintain a healthy lifestyle through sufficient exercise activities which will greatly help maintain smooth blood circulation, intake of foods rich in fiber and antioxidants, as well as adequate and quality rest time.