Risk factors

Factors that may increase your risk of intestinal ischemia include:

• Buildup of fatty deposits in your arteries (atherosclerosis). If you've had other conditions caused by atherosclerosis, such as decreased blood flow to your heart (coronary artery disease), legs (peripheral vascular disease) or the arteries serving your brain (carotid artery disease), you have an increased risk of intestinal ischemia.
• Age. People older than 50 are more likely to develop intestinal ischemia.
• Smoking. Cigarettes and other forms of smoked tobacco increase your risk of intestinal ischemia.
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Emphysema and other smoking-related lung diseases increase your risk of intestinal ischemia.
• Heart problems. Your risk of intestinal ischemia is increased if you have congestive heart failure or an irregular heartbeat such as atrial fibrillation.
• Medications. Certain medications may increase your risk of intestinal ischemia. Examples include birth control pills and medications that cause your blood vessels to expand or contract, such as certain allergy medications and migraine medications.
• Blood-clotting problems. Diseases and conditions that increase your risk of blood clots may increase your risk of intestinal ischemia. Examples include sickle cell anemia and the Factor V Leiden mutation.
• Illegal drug use. Cocaine and methamphetamine use have been linked to intestinal ischemia.