Why Is Ischemia Painful?

Ischemic pain is caused by tissue hypoxia and acidosis. Various receptors and neurohumoral substances are implicated in the transmission of acid nociception. A special class of receptors, called acid-sensing ion channels (ASIC), on peripheral and central neurons facilitates the transmission of ischemic pain.

Why does ischemia cause pain?

The build-up narrows the artery so much that the oxygen-rich blood the heart needs can't get through, and the heart muscle becomes starved for oxygen. This causes ischemia and angina.

Does ischemia hurt?

Chronic critical limb ischemia is manifested by pain at rest, nonhealing wounds and gangrene. Ischemic rest pain is typically described as a burning pain in the arch or distal foot that occurs while the patient is recumbent but is relieved when the patient returns to a position in which the feet are dependent.