The exact cause of Buerger's disease is not known. Cases of this disease in non-smokers are very rare, hence, cigarette smoking is considered a causative factor. The disease is mainly seen in the legs of affected persons, but may also appear in their arms. The main symptom is pain in the affected areas. Onset of the disease is gradual and first occurs in the feet or hands.
Inflammation occurs in small and medium-sized arteries and veins near the surface of the limb.
In advanced cases, blood vessels in other parts of the body may be affected. There is a progressive decrease in the blood flow to the affected areas. The pulse in arteries of the feet is weak or undetectable. The lack of blood flow can lead to gangrene, which is decay of tissue due to restricted blood supply. A cold sensitivity in the hands, similar to that seen in Raynaud's disease, can develop.