Can you get gangrene from smoking

What's this. Related Links. Links with this icon indicate that you are leaving the CDC website. Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by CDC or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website. You will be subject to the destination website's privacy policy when you follow the link. CDC is not responsible for Section compliance accessibility on other federal or private website. The reasons for the confinement to the extremities and sparing of other organs are not known.

This is a very painful condition which sometimes requires amputation of the affected area. Angiograms may also show occlusions blockages or stenoses narrowings in multiple areas of both the arms and legs.

Pictured below on the left is a normal angiogram. The changes are particularly apparent in the blood vessels in the lower right hand portion of the picture the ulnar artery distribution. This type of gangrene occurs when blood flow to an internal organ is blocked — for example, when your intestines bulge through a weakened area of muscle in your stomach area hernia and become twisted.

Gangrene can lead to serious complications if it's not immediately treated. Bacteria can spread quickly to other tissues and organs. You may need to have a body part removed amputated to save your life. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Overview Gangrene is death of body tissue due to a lack of blood flow or a serious bacterial infection.

Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Gangrene of the hand and foot Open pop-up dialog box Close. Gangrene of the hand and foot Gangrene results when blood flow to a certain area of your body is interrupted, causing tissue decay and death. Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Usatine RP, et al. Dry gangrene. McGraw Hill; This is known as amputation. If you have a condition that increases your risk of getting gangrene, such as diabetes, it's important you have regular check-ups to assess the state of your feet.

Report any problems to your GP as soon as possible. Stopping smoking if you smoke and adopting a healthy lifestyle, with a low-fat diet and regular exercise , can also improve your circulation and reduce your risk of developing gangrene. Page last reviewed: 16 August Next review due: 16 August