Micro Ischemic Disease

Micro ischemic disease may cause the occurrence of various forms of vascular, endocrinologic or metabolic diseases. These diseases can result in complicated and serious illnesses. Using preventive measures is better than suffering the serious consequences of the manifestations of related conditions such as stroke, renal failure, diabetes and other vascular conditions due to an underlying ischemic condition.

Significance

Ischemia in laymans terms refers to the shortage of blood supply to an organ of the body. The deprivation of blood supply results in a lack of oxygen being circulated in the body; this oxygen is vital for the functional activities of each organ to sustain life. Micro ischemic diseases indicate potentially high-risk conditions that require consistent evaluation, monitoring and immediate treatment to prevent fatality and dangers.

Consequences

Ischemic conditions deprive the body of a sufficient blood supply to deliver oxygen and nutrients. Cell death and necrosis occur with ischemic conditions. Vital organs in the body such as the brain, kidney and heart have tissues that are especially sensitive to ischemia.

Features

Micro ischemic disease is characterized by abnormalities involving vascular, metabolic, endocrinologic and hematogenic changes resulting in ischemia. There is a high chance for recurrence of the condition, and as it progresses, there is a relative risk for multiple infarction or ischemia. Stroke, transient ischemic attacks (mini strokes), dementia, hypertension, Parkinsonism (also known as Parkinson's syndrome, atypical Parkinson's or secondary Parkinson's) and depression are among its clinical features.

Identification

There are various types of micro ischemic disease. The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute indicates coronary microvascular disease as one that affects the smallest coronary arteries. It occurs as a result of plaque formation, diseased arterial walls and narrowing of the arterial vessels, which prevents the adequate distribution of blood. A study led by Dr. Christian Bocti from the Neurology Division of the Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital showed that ischemic lesions were one of the possible culprits leading to poor cognitive functions seen in patients with Alzheimers Disease. Metabolic disorders may occur with ischemic microvascular disease such as acute renal failure due to tubular necrosis as indicated by the American Family Physician. Ischemic Microvascular disease may also become a risk factor to diabetes with retinopathy, nephropathy and neuropathy as its devastating manifestations.

Prevention/Solution

Ischemic microvascular disease can be prevented with lifestyle modification, exercise and healthy diet. It is best to avoid fatty and high cholesterol foods as they contribute to the plaque formation along the vascular walls that may trigger ischemia. Reversal of the disease is difficult with the high risk of progression, hence preventing its occurrence is better than providing treatment to the condition.