Understanding Vasculitis: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

What Are the Main Causes of Vasculitis?

Vasculitis occurs when the immune system attacks blood vessel walls, but the exact cause is often unknown. Some possible triggers include:

• Autoimmune Disorders – Vasculitis is commonly linked to conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjögren’s syndrome.
• Infections – Certain viral and bacterial infections can trigger immune system dysfunction.
• Genetic Factors – Some types of vasculitis may have a hereditary component.
• Medication Reactions – Certain drugs can induce vasculitis as a side effect.
• Environmental Factors – Exposure to toxins, smoking, or allergens may contribute.

What Are the Symptoms of Vasculitis?

Symptoms vary depending on the type and severity of vasculitis, but common signs include:

✅ Fatigue and weakness

✅ Skin rashes and red or purple spots (petechiae or purpura)

✅ Joint pain and muscle aches

✅ Fever and weight loss

✅ Nerve problems (numbness, tingling, weakness)

✅ Shortness of breath if blood vessels in the lungs are affected

✅ Kidney dysfunction (high blood pressure, blood in urine)

✅ Headaches, dizziness, or vision problems

Types of Vasculitis & How They Affect the Body

There are three main categories of vasculitis, classified by the size of affected blood vessels:

1. Large Vessel Vasculitis

• Giant Cell Arteritis (Temporal Arteritis) – Common in older adults, causing headaches, jaw pain, and vision problems.
• Takayasu Arteritis – Affects aorta and major arteries, leading to weak pulses and high blood pressure.

2. Medium Vessel Vasculitis

• Polyarteritis Nodosa (PAN) – Causes organ damage, affecting the kidneys, heart, and digestive tract.
• Kawasaki Disease – Affects children, leading to fever, swollen lymph nodes, and heart complications.

3. Small Vessel Vasculitis

• Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA) – Affects sinuses, lungs, and kidneys.
• Microscopic Polyangiitis (MPA) – Causes kidney and lung inflammation.
• IgA Vasculitis (Henoch-Schönlein Purpura) – More common in children, causing rash, joint pain, and abdominal pain.

What is Vasculitis of the Legs?

Vasculitis in the legs and feet causes skin rashes, ulcers, pain, and swelling. Common types affecting the lower limbs include cutaneous vasculitis and polyarteritis nodosa. In severe cases, vasculitis may cause poor circulation, leading to tissue damage.

How is Vasculitis Diagnosed?

Doctors use a combination of:

• Blood tests (checking inflammation markers and autoantibodies)
• Urinalysis (detecting kidney damage)
• Imaging tests (CT scan, MRI, or PET scan to examine blood vessels)
• Tissue biopsy (confirming inflammation in affected areas)

Treatment Options for Vasculitis

There is no single cure for vasculitis, but treatments focus on reducing inflammation and preventing complications. Common approaches include:

• Corticosteroids – To reduce inflammation and control symptoms.
• Immunosuppressants (DMARDs & Biologic Therapy) – Used for severe or relapsing cases.
• Plasma Exchange & IVIG – For severe forms like ANCA-associated vasculitis.
• Targeted Therapy (JAK inhibitors & Monoclonal Antibodies) – For specific types of vasculitis.
• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) – Some patients explore herbal remedies and acupuncture as complementary treatments.

Does Vasculitis Ever Go Away?

Vasculitis may go into remission, meaning symptoms disappear temporarily or permanently with treatment. However, some forms of vasculitis require lifelong management.

Can You Lead a Normal Life with Vasculitis?

Many people with vasculitis can lead a normal life with proper treatment, lifestyle adjustments, and regular medical monitoring.

What is the Life Expectancy of Vasculitis?

Life expectancy depends on the type and severity of vasculitis. With early diagnosis and effective treatment, most people live normal or near-normal lifespans.