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Key Symptoms of Vasculitis: You Shouldn't Ignore

HomeConditionsVascular

ByAgkidzone Staff
Updated: Sep 26, 2024

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Vasculitis is a condition where the blood vessels become inflamed, and it can either develop independently or alongside other health issues. The inflammation can be temporary, but without proper treatment, it may lead to long-lasting damage to the blood vessels. Vasculitis can manifest in various forms, each differing in symptoms, severity, and duration. Though this condition is relatively rare, its causes are not yet fully understood. It can affect people of all ages and genders. Below, we’ll break down 10 common symptoms of vasculitis to help you better understand this complex condition.

Skin Rashes
One of the most common early signs of vasculitis is the appearance of skin rashes, particularly noticeable on the legs. These rashes often take the form of palpable purpura—reddish-purple spots that feel raised when touched. The cause of these spots is blood leaking into the skin from inflamed blood vessels. Typically, these rashes form in clusters and can vary in size. If you notice unexplained skin rashes, especially on your legs, vasculitis could be a possible explanation. While skin issues may seem minor, it’s always better to get checked out, especially if the rashes persist.
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Nerve Weakness

Weakness in the nerves is another warning sign of vasculitis. You might feel pain or numbness in your limbs, and in some cases, the weakness could affect one side of your body more than the other. This asymmetry in muscle strength, combined with sharp, shooting pain, is often linked to vasculitis. Since nerve weakness can come from many sources, it might not always be clear that vasculitis is the culprit. If you experience these symptoms and they don’t go away in a few days, it’s wise to see a doctor to determine the root cause.

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Fever and Fatigue
Fever is a common yet easily overlooked symptom of vasculitis. Along with fever, you may feel extreme fatigue, general discomfort, and a lack of energy. These symptoms are often mistaken for a simple viral infection or just exhaustion. Many people assume they need rest, but when the fever doesn’t improve, the situation could be more serious. As the disease progresses, it becomes clearer that these symptoms are part of a larger issue, and that’s when doctors typically begin looking for conditions like vasculitis.
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Abdominal Pain
In some cases, vasculitis can affect the gastrointestinal tract, causing severe abdominal pain. This pain may be accompanied by ulcers in the mouth or even bleeding in the digestive system. In severe instances, the blood flow to the intestines may become restricted, which can lead to more dangerous issues like ruptured organs. Bloody diarrhea and intense abdominal pain are red flags that should never be ignored. Immediate medical attention can help manage these symptoms and prevent further damage to the digestive system.
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Joint Pain
Joint pain is another frequent symptom of vasculitis, especially when the small blood vessels around the joints become inflamed. This inflammation can sometimes lead to arthritis, making the pain even worse. Types of vasculitis like Buerger’s disease, Polyarteritis nodosa, and Cryoglobulinemia are closely associated with joint pain. The discomfort can either develop gradually or hit suddenly during the later stages of the disease. If you notice persistent joint pain alongside other symptoms of vasculitis, it’s essential to discuss this with your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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Nasal and Sinus Problems
Some forms of vasculitis, such as Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (previously known as Wegener’s granulomatosis), cause inflammation in the nose and sinuses. Symptoms can include frequent sinus infections, nasal congestion, and crusting inside the nose. In more severe cases, patients may experience nosebleeds or even changes to the shape of their nose due to ongoing inflammation. While these issues can stem from other causes, when paired with vasculitis-related symptoms, they should be taken seriously. Proper treatment can prevent long-term damage to the nasal and sinus areas.
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Kidney Complications
When vasculitis affects the kidneys, it can be especially concerning, as the symptoms are often silent until significant damage has occurred. You may notice blood in your urine or have difficulty passing urine. In more severe cases, dialysis may be required to maintain kidney function. Types of vasculitis like Polyarteritis nodosa and Churg-Strauss syndrome are known to cause kidney complications. If you experience any unusual urinary issues, it’s critical to seek medical help quickly to avoid lasting harm.
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Vision Problems
Vasculitis can also impact the eyes, causing redness, irritation, and sensitivity to light. In some cases, you may even experience blurred or reduced vision. If the inflammation affects the small blood vessels inside the eyes, it can lead to more serious issues, such as conjunctivitis or damage to the retina. In conditions like Kawasaki disease and Behcet’s syndrome, vasculitis often targets the eyes, leading to potential vision loss if left untreated. If you notice any sudden changes in your eyesight, it’s best to see an eye specialist to rule out any serious underlying conditions like vasculitis.
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Brain Involvement
While rare, vasculitis can extend to the brain, causing a range of neurological symptoms. These can include severe headaches, difficulty concentrating, and cognitive challenges. In some cases, patients might experience symptoms that mimic a stroke, such as muscle weakness, loss of coordination, and impaired motor skills. When vasculitis inflames the blood vessels in the brain, these neurological issues can arise. Since these symptoms can be life-threatening, immediate medical attention is crucial to prevent long-term damage or complications. If you experience any neurological symptoms alongside other signs of vasculitis, don’t wait to contact a healthcare professional.
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Lung Issues

Breathing problems are another serious symptom of vasculitis, particularly when the lungs are involved. If vasculitis affects the small blood vessels in the lungs, it can lead to shortness of breath, coughing, and even coughing up blood in severe cases. Conditions like Microscopic polyangiitis and Granulomatosis with polyangiitis are known to impact lung function. While these symptoms can be mistaken for pneumonia or other respiratory conditions, when paired with other vasculitis symptoms, they may point to a more complex diagnosis. If you experience difficulty breathing or notice blood in your cough, your doctor may recommend a chest x-ray or further testing to confirm whether vasculitis is affecting your lungs.

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This site offers information designed for educational purposes only. You should not rely on any information on this site as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or as a substitute for, professional counseling care, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other healthcare professional.

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