What is Vasculitis?
Vasculitis is a disease that affects the blood vessels in distinct ways. Depending on its severity and area of your body it is, vasculitis can induce the vessels to weaken, enlarge, narrow or even collapse.
The condition affects people of all ages. However, it tends to be more common in adults and people who already have underlying health issues. Vasculitis targets parts of the body such as the following:
- eyes
- skin
- brain
- internal organs
The condition can also range in severity from moderate to extensive.
Symptoms of Vasculitis
Patients may not suspect that they suffer from Vasculitis because its symptoms are similar to those of other common illnesses such as the flu.
Some of the milder symptoms Vasculitis that our patients deal with include the following:
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Aches and pains
Vasculitis may also present itself with more serious symptoms such as the following:
- Bruising
- Arthritis in joints
- Itching, burning eyes
- Severe headaches
- Change in mental function
- Numbness and tingling in the extremeities
- Sinus congestion and ringing in the ears
These symptoms often appear with other illnesses, which contributes to misdiagnosis and delay in treatment.
Cause of Vasculitis
The cause of Vasculitis is uncertain. However, the theory is that it is a type of autoimmune disease and results in the body attacking the blood vessels out of mistake, rather than for a legitimate medical reason.
Experts suspect that the cause of Vasculitis could be the result of triggers such as the following:
- Hepatitis B or C
- Blood cancer
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Lupus
- Scleroderma
- Negative reactions to over-the-counter or prescription medications
Vasculitis Treatment
Once our doctors diagnose you with Vasculitis, you may undergo any of the available treatment options at our office near Conroe. In addition, the length of time for your treatment of Vasculitis will depend on multiple factors. Every patient is different, which is why there is no one-size-fits-all treatment for the condition. However, we have had great results using biologics.
During a consultation at Arthritis & Osteoporosis Clinic of Brazos Valley, you can learn more about options for Vasculitis treatment. Our office is in College Station, TX, but we happily serve clients throughout Texas and the surrounding areas. Contact us with the link below to schedule an appointment!
