Mesenteric artery ischemia has two types: acute and chronic. The acute form of the disease appears suddenly. Acute ischemia has severe symptoms. The chronic type of MAI has a more gradual onset. For most people, blood clots cause acute ischemia.
Atherosclerosis is usually the cause of chronic ischemia. Symptoms include:
abdominal pain and tenderness
bloating or a sense of fullness
diarrhea
nausea
vomiting
fever
You may also have a sudden urge to have frequent bowel movements during an acute case of MAI. Blood in the stool is a common symptom.
Stomach pain after eating is also a symptom of chronic ischemia. You may develop a fear of eating due to the expectation of pain. This can cause unintended weight loss.