What is ischemia?

Ischemia refers to a condition where there is a deficiency of blood and oxygen within a tissue that is supplied by an artery. This occurs when there is a reduction or obstruction in blood flow, which can result from various factors including narrowing of arteries, blood clots, or other circulatory issues. The lack of adequate blood flow leads to a shortage of oxygen and essential nutrients that the tissue requires to function properly, often resulting in damage or dysfunction of the affected tissues.

Understanding ischemia is crucial in the context of health and medicine because it can lead to serious complications. For instance, in the heart, ischemia can result in angina or even a heart attack if blood flow is not restored promptly. Similarly, ischemia in the brain can lead to strokes. Thus, recognizing the signs and implications of ischemia is important for prevention and treatment strategies in healthcare.