Vasculitis: Inflammation of Blood Vessels – Symptoms, Types, and Urgency

Vasculitis is inflammation of blood vessels (arteries, veins, capillaries). It can affect any organ system, causing diverse symptoms.

Common Symptoms

• Fever, fatigue, unexplained weight loss
• Muscle and joint pain
• Skin rashes (purpura, nodules, ulcers)
• Neurological issues (numbness, weakness, stroke)
• Organ-specific signs (renal, pulmonary, GI, cardiac)

Why Prompt Treatment Matters

Untreated vasculitis can lead to irreversible organ damage (kidney failure, vision loss, aneurysm, perforation) and death. Early diagnosis (biopsy, angiography, serology) and immunosuppression (corticosteroids, cyclophosphamide, rituximab) are critical.

If you suspect vasculitis, seek urgent rheumatology or internal medicine evaluation.