Vasculitis (inflamed blood vessels)

Overview

There are many types, from small vessels in the skin to large vessels like the aorta.

Organs affected depend on the type.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Fever and tiredness

Less common

• Rash
• Joint pain
• Numbness

Look up a symptom: Fever

When to get medical care

Causes

Immune system.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Older adults: Giant cell arteritis is mostly over 50
• People with lupus, RA, or hepatitis B or C: Higher risk

Possible complications

• Stroke: From blocked or weakened blood vessels
• Kidney damage: Some types attack the kidneys

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Blood tests:
• Biopsy:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Take medicines as prescribed

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a rheumatologist (joint and immune system doctor).

Living with it

Support groups and helplines

• Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Free NIH information on rare diseases, including where to find experts and patient groups.
• National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD): Patient groups, help finding care, and aid programs for rare diseases.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Adults over 50: Some types more common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Treatment controls most types.

Treatment controls most.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?
• What type do I have?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Vasculitis (inflamed blood vessels)