Home : Health : 10 Signs Of Vasculitis To Look Out For

10 signs of vasculitis to look out for

10 signs of vasculitis to look out for

Vasculitis is a condition characterized by inflammation and swelling of the blood vessels, which can further cause severe complications by disrupting blood flow. There are several types of vasculitis, all of which can affect one or multiple organs in the body. Hence, it is crucial to recognize the signs of vasculitis. Its effective management and treatment can begin at the earliest. Here are a few common signs of vasculitis that one should look out for:

1. Digestive issues
If vasculitis has affected a person’s digestive system, they can experience several digestive problems and gastrointestinal symptoms. This may include abdominal pain (especially after eating), nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and, in some cases, blood in the stool. While these signs can also indicate other health conditions, one must not dismiss them. Either way, they must consult a healthcare professional.

2. Tinnitus
Tinnitus is the persistent ringing or buzzing sound that one experiences when there is discomfort in the ear. This happens when vasculitis affects blood vessels present in the ears. Besides tinnitus, vasculitis can cause other ear discomfort, including abrupt hearing loss or deafness.

3. Numbness of limbs
A hallmark sign of vasculitis is numbness or tingling in the hands or feet. This occurs due to the disruption of blood flow caused by vasculitis. Some also describe this sign as a ‘feeling of pins and needles’ in their hands and feet. This sign can also be accompanied by swelling of the palms or feet.

4. Shortness of breath
If vasculitis has affected lung blood vessels, a person may experience shortness of breath. Lung discomfort may also include persistent coughing. In some cases, individuals may also cough up blood. These signs of respiratory discomfort can also indicate other ailments, but either way, they must be brought to the attention of a medical professional.

5. Discomfort in eyes
Discomfort in the eyes is another common sign of vasculitis. It can include redness of the eyes, accompanied by an itching or burning sensation. In some cases, it may also cause double vision and temporary or permanent blindness. If one experiences persistent discomfort in their eyes or changes in their vision, they must consult a medical professional.

6. Fatigue and weakness
Unexplained and chronic fatigue is also a sign that can indicate several conditions. However, it can also be a clear indicator of vasculitis. If one finds themselves constantly exhausted despite getting proper sleep and rest, it might be cause for concern. Fatigue and weakness can occur in vasculitis due to the disruption of blood flow caused by the condition.

7. Spots under the skin
Signs of vasculitis can also be seen on the skin in the form of rashes, bumps, or red spots. These skin lesions can appear on different parts of the body. In some cases, these rashes and sores can be quite uncomfortable and affect the overall quality of life. If one notices unusual skin lesions that persist, one must seek immediate medical attention.

8. Joint pain
Muscle and joint pain are common symptoms of various conditions, such as arthritis. However, when this pain persists, it may indicate an underlying issue like vasculitis. If vasculitis causes inflammation in the blood vessels surrounding muscles and joints, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. This pain can affect one or multiple areas of the body.

9. Change in the color of urine
If vasculitis affects the kidneys, it can manifest as a darkening of the urine. This may be because of the presence of blood in the urine. It is a serious symptom and requires immediate medical attention.

10. General symptoms
Besides the abovementioned signs, a few other general signs and symptoms also appear during vasculitis. These include fever, headache, loss of appetite, and a general feeling of being unwell.

Complications of vasculitis
Since vasculitis disrupts blood flow, it can directly affect the organ or the part of the body to which the blood flow is disrupted. Consequently, it can have the following complications:

1. Organ damage
Organ damage is one of the most severe and concerning complications of vasculitis. It can happen because the inflammation of blood vessels can disrupt the normal blood supply to vital organs such as the kidneys, lungs, heart, and brain. This reduced blood flow can cause damage to these organs, impairing their function.

2. Blood clots and aneurysm
Inflammation of blood vessels can also cause blood clots, partially or completely blocking blood flow. This can then lead to aneurysms and bulging areas of blood vessels. In rare cases, these blood vessels can also rupture, which can be life-threatening. To prevent it, the doctor may suggest surgery to treat the aneurysm.

When to seek medical help
If one experiences any signs of vasculitis, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing vasculitis effectively and preventing potential complications. Remember that vasculitis can present differently in each person, and not everyone with vasculitis will experience all these symptoms. Therefore, listening to the body and seeking medical advice if something feels amiss is essential. Diagnosing vasculitis can include several physical tests and examinations, such as blood tests, biopsies, angiograms (x-rays of the blood vessels), and imaging tests for the organs.

Vasculitis is a challenging condition to deal with. Recognizing its symptoms and making a timely diagnosis can help one begin managing it effectively. Furthermore, living with vasculitis can be challenging, too. It can involve regular visits to the doctor, regular following of a treatment plan, and regular monitoring to manage the symptoms and prevent flare-ups. However, emotional support, either from family, friends, or support groups, can play a crucial role in helping individuals navigate the challenges of vasculitis. Additionally, following a healthy food regimen and regular exercise can also be beneficial.

Most Popular

Important things to know about kidney problems

Important things to know about kidney problems

Kidney diseases are some of the most common and life-threatening conditions that affect patients worldwide. These diseases lead to kidney function failure over time. It can be caused by various factors, including environmental toxins, genetic predispositions, and unhealthy lifestyle choices. Kidney disease can lead to severe health complications such as acute renal failure (ARF), chronic kidney disease (CKD), or chronic renal failure (CRF). A healthy kidney is a sign of a healthy body and lifestyle. The function of the kidney The kidney is an essential organ that performs many functions in the body. It filters the blood, removes waste products and excess water from the body, and helps maintain a person’s balance of electrolytes like sodium and potassium. Kidneys help maintain their normal levels of salt concentration which is essential for the proper functioning of every cell tissue in the body because, without adequate amounts of salt, no cells can function properly. The kidney also plays a vital role in regulating blood pressure and volume by keeping them at appropriate levels through urine production. The kidneys also regulate fluid balance in your body by removing excess water from urine and adding extra water into the urine when necessary for your body tissues not to be dehydrated.  Kidney failure is when a person’s kidneys cannot function properly due to disease or injury; this condition can be fatal if left untreated.
Modifying homes for people with poor vision

Modifying homes for people with poor vision

One of the top reasons for low vision and blindness in people over 55 is macular degeneration. Macular degeneration causes loss of vision due to damage to the macula in the retina of the eye. It can be difficult for people with this condition to live in inaccessible homes. So, to ensure ease of maneuverability for people with macular degeneration or similar conditions, here are 13 tips to make a home low-vision friendly. Use clear and contrasting colors for walls The key to making a low-vision-friendly home is using light and dark colors. Dark colors can be complex for those with low vision, but if used intelligently, it can make all the difference. The answer lies in how light reflects off certain surfaces. If you have a bright yellow wall with black trim around it, then any space adjacent to it will be illuminated by daylight coming through windows above them. Contrasting shades like white or black help keep things cooler by reflecting out more heat than they receive from direct sunlight. Place essential items in your line of sight Ensure that important items, such as mobility aids, phones, and other necessities, are within your line of sight and not obscured by something else in the room.
Key things to know about macular degeneration

Key things to know about macular degeneration

Macular degeneration is an eye disorder that affects the macula, a tiny part of the retina that provides sharp central vision. The most common kind of this disease is age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which affects many people in our country over 60 years. While there is no cure for macular degeneration, several treatments and lifestyle changes help manage the symptoms and improve your vision so that it does not interfere with everyday life. What are the types of macular degeneration? There are two common types of the condition: Wet or exudative macular degeneration This is the more common type. It occurs when the tiny blood vessels in front of your retina get damaged and leak fluid into your eye, causing swelling, redness, and dampness. The condition can affect your central vision and cause blurry patches in the center. Central vision is the area you see directly in front of you. Dry or atrophic macular degeneration Also known as senile macular degeneration, this condition occurs when the retina does not receive sufficient oxygen due to damage from aging; it results in a breakdown of the central part of the retina (the photoreceptors). What causes this eye disorder? The risk factors include genetics and lifestyle ailments, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and diabetes.
Nasal polyps – Symptoms, causes, and management

Nasal polyps – Symptoms, causes, and management

Nasal polyps can be a symptom of an underlying condition or occur independently. The visible signs and symptoms of nasal polyps include congestion, runny nose, loss of smell, and pressure or pain around your eyes and cheeks. A deviated septum may contribute to nasal polyps. However, they can also occur in people who do not have this condition, such as athletes who blow their noses frequently during exercise routines. Read on to learn more about nasal polyps. What are nasal polyps? Nasal polyps are small, soft growths that develop in the lining of the nasal passages and sinuses. They are also sometimes called nasal tumors or nasal corking. They are not cancerous, contagious, or caused by allergies. Nasal polyps may also be associated with other conditions like chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), allergic rhinitis (AR), chronic sinusitis (CS), and asthma. Nasal polyps typically develop before the age of 40, and they do not usually cause symptoms until they grow larger or become inflamed or infected.  However, large nasal polyps can block airflow through your nose. If this happens, you may experience sinusitis, headaches, and a stuffy or runny nose. You may also experience difficulty breathing through one nostril at a time if large polyps block the other nostril completely.
Atopic dermatitis – Causes, symptoms, and more

Atopic dermatitis – Causes, symptoms, and more

Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is a disorder that results in dry, irritable, and inflammatory skin. Though it can affect anyone, young children are more vulnerable to this disorder. The symptoms include recurring (chronic) and sporadic flare-ups, though it is not contagious. Atopic dermatitis patients risk contracting asthma and seasonal and food allergies. Regular moisturizing and skin disease condition-related treatments help alleviate itching and prevent further outbreaks. Using medicated lotions or ointments during treatment is also helpful. Symptoms Depending on an individual’s age, the severity of the condition, and other circumstances, symptoms of atopic dermatitis may vary. Those who have the condition typically experience phases of worsening symptoms, followed by times of improvement or even complete disappearance. The following sections will cover some likely variances in symptoms in more detail. General eczema symptoms Eczema symptoms are usually not severe. The most common signs and symptoms of atopic dermatitis include dry, itchy skin, skin flushing, or weeping sores.  Individuals with severe eczema skin disease may need more intensive care to eliminate their problems. Infections of the skin can also result from persistent touching and scratching. The appearance of the skin area afflicted by atopic dermatitis will vary depending on the frequency of itching and infection.

Popular Articles

Afib – Types, causes, symptoms, and management
Health
01

Afib – Types, causes, symptoms, and management

Atrial fibrillation (Afib) occurs when the usually stable and regular electrical impulses in the heart’s upper chambers (atria) begin firing chaotically, causing them to quiver or twitch (fibrillate). This can cause blood accumulation and clotting in the atria. These clots can reach the lungs through the blood vessels and cause pulmonary embolism or can reach the brain, resulting in a stroke. Let’s look at the forms, signs, and causes of Afib and its treatment options: Types of atrial fibrillation Afib can be classified as one or more of these: First-diagnosed Afib: Regardless of symptoms or the number or length of episodes, this refers to individuals diagnosed for the first time with Afib. Asymptomatic Afib: This condition is also called silent Afib, given the lack of signs or symptoms. A random electrocardiogram (ECG) could reveal asymptomatic atrial fibrillation. Paroxysmal Afib: Two or more episodes of the conditions that spontaneously resolve within a week are categorized as paroxysmal Afib. Persistent Afib: This refers to two or more episodes of atrial fibrillation that last seven days or more. Long-term persistent Afib: If the condition persists for more than a year, it is referred to as long-term persistent Afib. Permanent Afib: This is a chronic condition that cannot be managed using common treatment options.
Read More
How to reduce sugar intake and manage blood sugar
Health
02

How to reduce sugar intake and manage blood sugar

It is a known fact that too much sugar can be devastating for your health. When blood sugar is high, the body produces more insulin, which can lead to several health complications, including prediabetes and diabetes. So, you must cut down on sugar. Choosing healthy snacks and increasing fiber and probiotic intake can help. Moreover, regular exercise is essential. Here are a few tips to lower sugar intake and manage blood sugar levels naturally. Avoid carbohydrates A high intake of carbohydrates has a substantial impact on blood sugar levels. The body breaks down carbohydrates into sugars like glucose, which enters the blood. While the body requires glucose for energy, an excess can be harmful. As the amount of glucose increases, so does the amount of insulin produced by the body, leading to a greater risk of lifestyle disorders. Some foods with an abundance of carbs to stay away from are potato chips and donuts. Control your portion size If you are dealing with frequent blood sugar spikes, monitoring portion size can help. When you eat a large meal, blood glucose increases suddenly. To avoid this, eat smaller meals. You can opt for five to six small meals per day instead of two or three large ones.
Read More
11 management options to keep anxiety at bay
Health
03

11 management options to keep anxiety at bay

People with anxiety disorders regularly and excessively experience fear and panic in everyday situations. If unchecked, anxiety can impair normal functioning and degrade the quality of life. One must consult a health expert if anxiety is affecting their social life. But first, ensure that any physical health issues are ruled out before consulting them. Most individuals with anxiety disorders need medication or therapy, but coping strategies and lifestyle decisions can also be helpful. Stop and take a breath When you experience an anxiety episode, take a moment to think about what is making you feel uneasy. Usual anxiety symptoms include concerns about a recent or distant event. For example, you can worry that something wrong will happen to you in the future. Or, you can still be upset about something that has already happened in the past. But, whatever your concerns, most anxiety issues stem from not focusing on the present. The next time you feel nervous and get distracted from the present moment, sit down and take some deep breaths to reclaim your composure. You can regain balance and return to the present moment by pausing and taking a few deep breaths. If you have the time, consider advancing this practice by experimenting with breathing techniques.
Read More