Complications

If not treated promptly, acute mesenteric ischemia can lead to:

• Sepsis. This potentially life-threatening condition is caused by the body releasing chemicals into the bloodstream to fight infection. In sepsis, the body overreacts to the chemicals, triggering changes that can lead to multiple organ failure.
• Irreversible bowel damage. Insufficient blood flow to the bowel can cause parts of the bowel to die.
• Death. Both of the above complications can lead to death.

People with chronic mesenteric ischemia can develop:

• Fear of eating. This occurs because of the after-meal pain associated with the condition.
• Unintentional weight loss. This can occur as a result of the fear of eating.
• Acute-on-chronic mesenteric ischemia. Symptoms of chronic mesenteric ischemia can progress, leading to the acute form of the condition.