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What Would Cause Inflammation of the Blood Vessels?

Inflammation of the blood vessels, or vasculitis, is a medical condition that can thicken or weaken the walls of the blood vessels and reduce the flow of blood. Vasculitis can develop without a known cause or from other medical conditions.

  1. Infections

    • According to Mayo Clinic, blood vessel inflammation can develop from some viral infections, such as hepatitis B and hepatitis C.

    Immune System

    • Immune system diseases, such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and Sjogren̵7;s syndrome, can lead to vasculitis.

    Allergies

    • Blood vessel inflammation can develop as an allergic reaction to a drug that is used by a patient. Patients with vasculitis should inform their doctors of all medications that they take.

    Cancer

    • Blood cell cancers, such as lymphoma and leukemia, can cause blood vessels to become inflamed.

    Symptoms

    • People with vasculitis may observe weight loss, fatigue and fever. Joint and muscle pain and feelings of numbness in the body can occur with this disease.

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