Gangrene is a severe condition marked by the death of body tissue because of a lack of blood flow or due to a bacterial infection. It commonly impacts the arms and legs, usually the toes and fingers. It can also take place in the muscles and the gallbladder. Conditions like diabetes and atherosclerosis can destroy blood vessels and impact blood flow. This elevates the risk of gangrenene. Treatment includes antibiotics, oxygen therapy, and surgery to restore blood flow and remove necrotic (dead) tissue. In this article, we’ll explore the causes of gangrene.
How is Gangrene caused?
Gangrene is caused by a number of factors including:
1. Blood supply deficiency:
Our blood is part of the circulatory system, carrying oxygen and other nutrients to other parts of the body. It also transports antibodies to the immune system to ward off infections. Without a proper blood supply, cells of the tissue can't survive, and the tissue dies.
2. Infection:
Failing to treat a bacterial infection can be one of the causes of gangrene.
3. Injury caused by a physical trauma:
When the body endures injuries from gunshot wounds or encounters the tremendous impact of a car accident, it can lead to open wounds that allow bacteria to enter. In instances where these bacterial infections in the tissues are not addressed, gangrene becomes a potential consequence.
Exploring the factors that increase the risk of Gangrene:
Having understood what causes gangrene, now let’s just focus on the risk factors which include:
1. Diabetes:
High blood sugar levels can significantly damage blood vessels can result in reduced or complete blockage of blood supply to certain body parts.
2. Infection:
Untreated bacterial infections that result in blocked blood flow can cause gangrene.
3. Cardiovascular condition:
Atherosclerosis and the formation of blood clots can block blood flow to a certain part of the body. This can cause local circulation issues.
4. Major trauma or surgical procedure:
Damage to the skin and the tissues below, including frostbite, increases the risk for gangrene. This risk is boosted when an underlying medical condition disrupts the blood supply to the injured area.
5. Smoking:
The risk of gangrene is greater for those who engage in smoking. Research states that the substances in tobacco may irritate the blood vessel lining, causing them to swell, which can cause gangrene in the long run.
6. Obesity:
Being overweight can exert pressure on arteries. This leads ding to a reduction in blood flow and an elevated risk of infection, and impaired wound healing.
7. Immunosuppression:
Treatments like chemotherapy, exposure to ionising radiation, and certain illnesses, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), can affect lower the immunity of a person. This can lead to a weak immune response to disease, ultimately leading to infection.
8. Injections:
In rare cases, bacterial infections can occur at the site of an injection that can cause gangrene.
Conclusion
If you were wondering what causes gangrene, we hope this helped. In summary, gangrene is a serious issue and one that needs medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent complications. Neglecting gangrene can result in its rapid spread and may result in surgical intervention or even amputation. Having a health insurance plan can help cover the costs of treatment for conditions like gangrene, ensuring timely medical intervention without financial stress.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.