Vasculitis is a rare autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of the blood vessels, reducing blood flow to your internal organs and other bodily tissues. While the severity can range from mild to life-threatening, knowing how to spot the symptoms can protect your health and lower your risk of complications.
At Katy Rheumatology & Associates in Katy, Texas, double-board-certified rheumatologist Padma Chimata, MD, FACP, AGS, and our caring team provide high-quality care for patients with vasculitis. In this month’s blog, we explain what causes this rare condition, highlight common symptoms, and discuss effective treatment options.
Vasculitis occurs when your body’s immune system mistakenly attacks your blood vessels, causing the vessels to become inflamed and thickened and affecting blood flow.
Experts don’t yet know its exact cause, but several factors, including genetics, immune system diseases, and reactions to certain medications are thought to play a role in vasculitis onset.
Vasculitis affects people from all walks of life, but certain forms of the condition, like Kawasaki and Buerger disease, are more common in those aged 50 and younger.
Vasculitis symptoms vary significantly depending on the type and location of blood vessel inflammation. Even so, the disease presents common systemic signs, including:
Organ-specific symptoms can also occur. For example, lung vasculitis often causes shortness of breath and a cough, while skin vasculitis often leads to frequent rashes, ulcers (slow-healing open wounds), and purple spots.
If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t wait to make an appointment. The sooner vasculitis is diagnosed, the quicker you can begin treatment and start feeling better.
There isn’t a specific test that diagnoses vasculitis. Instead, Dr. Chimata reviews your health history, asks about your symptoms, and completes a physical exam. She also orders blood tests at our on-site lab and diagnostic imaging.
Dr. Chimata may also conduct a tissue biopsy, which allows her to assess a sample of tissue from your skin or another affected organ to check for blood vessel inflammation.
Vasculitis can’t be cured, but several treatments can reduce blood vessel inflammation, ease uncomfortable symptoms, and improve your quality of life. Depending on the type of vasculitis you have, Dr. Dr. Chimata may recommend:
Sometimes, vasculitis blocks blood vessels or causes a blood vessel to bulge (aneurysm). Because these conditions increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, surgery may be recommended to prevent them from worsening.
Vasculitis can affect your circulation and prevent organs from receiving the necessary oxygen and nutrients to function well. But it’s not all bad news: Prompt diagnosis and treatment can prevent the condition from worsening and help you maintain an active, healthy life.
If you’re concerned you might be at risk for vasculitis, call our office in Katy, Texas, today, or book an appointment online at your convenience. We’re here to assess your medical concerns, support your health, and offer effective treatment solutions.
