Ischemic

Relating to or suffering from ischemia, a condition characterized by a restriction in blood supply to tissues, causing a shortage of oxygen and glucose needed for cellular metabolism (to keep the tissue alive). This can lead to damage or dysfunction of the affected tissue. ischemic conditions are often caused by blood vessel blockages, narrowing (stenosis), or spasms. The severity of the ischemic effect depends on the degree and duration of the blood supply restriction.

Ischemic meaning with examples

• The patient's chest pain was determined to be caused by an ischemic event, indicating reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. Doctors performed an angiogram, which is a special X-ray, to diagnose a blockage and treat the cause. Quick treatment was vital to minimize heart muscle damage.
• A transient ischemic attack (TIA), or 'mini-stroke,' caused temporary neurological symptoms, demonstrating a brief period of ischemia in the brain. The individual recovered fully, but the event increased the risk of a future stroke, so treatment was administered to manage the risk.
• Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) can result in ischemic pain in the legs and feet due to reduced blood flow. This often presents as pain with walking or other activity. The ischemia leads to fatigue, muscle weakness, and can lead to a higher risk of non-healing ulcers and infections.
• Brain damage due to perinatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy can occur in newborn babies if their brains are deprived of oxygen or blood flow during birth, which can cause a wide variety of problems for the infant.