URL of this page: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000725.htm
Definition
Arterial insufficiency is a lack of enough blood flow through the arteries.
See also: Venous insufficiency
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
One of the most common causes of arterial insufficiency is atherosclerotic disease.
Symptoms
Arterial insufficiency can affect many different parts of the body. The specific symptoms may indicate which artery is involved.
If brain arteries are involved, it can cause symptoms of stroke. If the arteries of the lower abdomen or legs are involved, you might have repeated episodes of leg cramping when you walk. Arterial insufficiency also can affect the arteries in the abdomen, causing pain after you eat meals.
Update Date: 10/22/2007 Updated by: Larry A. Weinrauch, M.D. Assistant Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, and private practice specializing in Cardiovascular Disease, Watertown, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.