Vasculitis overview

Overview

Vasculitis is a group of rare conditions where the blood vessels become inflamed – that is, swollen and damaged. This inflammation can affect any blood vessel in the body, from large arteries to tiny capillaries, and can disrupt normal blood flow.

No, vasculitis is rare. The exact number of people affected varies by the type, but overall it is not a common condition.

Vasculitis can affect both children and adults. Some types are more common in certain age groups—for example, Kawasaki disease mainly affects young children, while giant cell arteritis is more common in older adults. It can also affect men and women differently depending on the type.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Fever
• Fatigue and weakness
• Joint pain or swelling
• Skin rashes, such as purple or red spots
• Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet

Symptoms in children

• Similar symptoms as adults, plus possible growth or weight gain problems
• Irritability and high fever in conditions like Kawasaki disease
• Red eyes, cracked lips, or swollen hands and feet

Symptoms in older adults

• Headache, jaw pain when chewing, and vision changes (especially in giant cell arteritis)
• Persistent muscle aches and stiffness in the shoulders, hips, and neck
• Unexplained weight loss and low appetite

Causes

Main causes

• In most cases, the immune system mistakenly attacks the blood vessels, causing inflammation (autoimmune reaction).
• Some types of vasculitis are triggered by an infection, such as hepatitis B or C.
• Rarely, certain medications or other diseases can cause vasculitis.

Risk factors

• Having another autoimmune disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus
• Certain infections, especially hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or strep throat
• Smoking tobacco
• Being over 50 years old (for some types like giant cell arteritis)

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have symptoms like sudden vision loss, severe chest pain, or signs of a stroke, call your local emergency number immediately.
• If you have a high fever with a new rash that does not fade when pressed, seek same-day medical care.

Book a routine appointment if:

• See a healthcare provider if you have unexplained symptoms lasting more than a few days, such as fever, joint pain, or fatigue.
• If you notice changes in your urine (like foam or blood) or swelling in your legs, make an appointment.

Diagnosis

A healthcare provider will take your full medical history, perform a physical exam, and order tests to look for inflammation and damage to blood vessels.

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests to check for high levels of inflammation (like ESR or CRP) and for certain antibodies (like ANCA)
• Urine tests to see if the kidneys are affected
• Imaging scans such as an angiogram, MRI, or CT scan to look at the blood vessels
• A biopsy – taking a small sample of affected tissue (like skin or a blood vessel) to examine under a microscope

What to expect at your appointment

The diagnosis process may take some time because vasculitis can mimic other conditions. You will likely be referred to a specialist called a rheumatologist or a vasculitis expert. Your doctor will work with you to understand your symptoms and start treatment as soon as possible.

Treatment

Treatment aims to reduce inflammation in the blood vessels and control the immune system to prevent further damage. Most people with vasculitis need medication, often for a long time.

Self-care at home

• Get plenty of rest when your symptoms are active.
• Follow your treatment plan exactly as prescribed – do not stop or change medications without talking to your doctor.
• Avoid triggers that may worsen symptoms, such as smoking or known infections.
• Keep a symptom diary to track flares and share with your healthcare team.

Medical treatments

Doctors usually prescribe medicines that reduce inflammation – such as corticosteroids – and medicines that suppress the immune system (immunosuppressants). The specific type and dose depend on the type of vasculitis, the severity, and your overall health. In some cases, a procedure called plasmapheresis (filtering the blood) may be used to remove harmful antibodies.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed. It may be considered for complications such as an aneurysm (a bulging blood vessel) or to repair damaged blood vessels. Your doctor will discuss this only if necessary.

Living with this condition

Living with vasculitis means managing periods of active disease (flares) and times when symptoms are quiet (remission). It helps to learn your early warning signs and have a plan with your healthcare team.

Lifestyle tips

• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol.
• Get regular, gentle exercise like walking or swimming, as tolerated.
• Practice good hand hygiene to reduce the risk of infections, especially if you are on immune-suppressing medication.
• Protect your skin from the sun and extreme cold, which can sometimes trigger symptoms.

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins supports your immune system and overall health. If you have kidney involvement, your doctor may suggest a low-salt or low-protein diet. Exercise is important but start slowly and listen to your body during flares.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with a chronic illness like vasculitis can be stressful and may cause anxiety or depression. It is common to feel frustrated or worried. Talking to a counsellor or joining a support group can help. If you have thoughts of harming yourself, contact a crisis helpline or your local emergency number.

Prevention

For most types of vasculitis, there is no known way to prevent it, because the cause is not fully understood. However, avoiding triggers such as smoking and certain infections may reduce the risk for some people.

Vaccines

Staying up to date with recommended vaccines, including the flu shot and pneumonia vaccine, is especially important for people with vasculitis because the immune system may be weakened by treatment. Ask your doctor about which vaccines are right for you.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for vasculitis in the general population. However, if you have a condition that increases your risk (like another autoimmune disease), your doctor may monitor you for signs of vasculitis during regular check-ups.

Complications

If left untreated

• Permanent damage to blood vessels, leading to organ problems such as kidney failure or heart attack
• Stroke or severe nerve damage
• Loss of vision (in some types like giant cell arteritis)
• Aneurysms (weak spots in blood vessel walls) that can burst

Long-term outlook

With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, many people with vasculitis can achieve remission – a period with few or no symptoms. Treatment often continues to prevent flares, but many people can lead full, active lives. Remember that each person’s experience is different, and your healthcare team will work with you to get the best possible outcome.

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