Why do some people get intestinal ischemia and others don't?

Variety of causes: Smoking, vascular disease, drug (cocaine use), high cholesterol are all important causes. Some types of cancer can also cause intestinal ischemia. Certain forms of heart disease can also cause this condition.

Depends: Usually ischemia of the bowel is associated with low blood flow from dehydration, however most commonly occurs in the elderly who have peripheral vascular disease or narrowing of the vessels and when their blood pressure drops for numerous reasons, there is inadequate blood flow to the bowels. Acute weight loss or blood clots can also cause this. It is a serious condition and potentially life thre.