Chronic Mesenteric Ischemia
(continued)
A clot, called an embolus, which travels to one of the mesenteric arteries and suddenly blocks the blood flow, is a common cause for acute mesenteric ischemia. These clots often originate in the heart and are more common among patients with an irregular heartbeat or heart disease.
Other conditions that may lead to mesenteric ischemia include:
- Low blood pressure
- Congestive heart failure
- Aortic dissection, which is a tear in the aorta's inner layer
- Occlusion or blockage of the veins in the bowel
- Coagulation disorders
- Unusual disorders of the blood vessels such as fibromuscular dysplasia and arteritits
Mesenteric ischemia is a serious condition that may come on and worsen quickly. It is extremely important that you go to your physician or the emergency room if you experience any of the symptoms.