Vasculitis is a general term used to describe a group of conditions that can damage the blood vessels due to inflammation and swelling. Depending on the part of the body it affects and the symptoms it exhibits, it can be classified into different types, like Buerger’s Disease, Cogan Syndrome, and hypersensitivity vasculitis, among others. This article explores some of the warning signs of vasculitis so one can stay informed and seek medical intervention promptly.

The most general signs and symptoms of vasculitis include fever, headache, fatigue, and muscle aches and pains. Other signs and symptoms are related to the part of the body it affects, which include:

Gastrointestinal tract
When vasculitis affects the digestive system (organs like the esophagus, stomach, and intestines), one may experience symptoms such as open sores in the mouth or stomach area, diarrhea, vomiting, blood, and pain in the abdominal region.

Ears and nose
When the ears and nose are affected by vasculitis, individuals may experience sinus infections, inner ear infections, a runny nose, dizziness, hearing loss, ringing in the ear, or even deafness.

Eyes
When it affects the eyes, vasculitis may cause symptoms such as redness, itching, burning, and vision changes. Those with giant cell arteritis may also experience double vision or temporary or permanent blindness in one or both eyes.

Lungs
If the lungs are affected, symptoms may also include shortness of breath, bleeding within the lungs, and coughing up blood.

Skin
Some people with vasculitis may develop skin rashes, purple or red spots or bumps, bruises, hives, or itching. The condition may also lead to the formation of lumps or open sores on the skin.

Joints
When vasculitis affects the joints, symptoms tend to vary greatly in intensity. Those undergoing this condition may experience joint pain ranging from mild pain without any swelling (arthralgias) to full-blown arthritis.

Kidneys
In the early stages, renal inflammation does not cause any symptoms. However, as the condition progresses, it may lead to renal failure. This may lead to the need for dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Genitalia
Those with vasculitis may also develop genital ulcers, which are open sores in the genital region.

Nerves
Vasculitis may also cause numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness around the body.

Hands and feet
One may also lose strength in their hands and feet and experience shooting pains in the arms and legs. Other symptoms include swelling or hardening of the palms or soles, pain, ulcers, and gangrene.

Blood
Vasculitis may also lead to abnormal blood counts. Many people with active vasculitis may develop anemia (low red blood cell count). Some may also experience elevated levels of erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein.

Brain
When present in the brain, vasculitis can cause headaches, strokes, changes in mental status, or difficulty in coordination.

Vasculitis causes damage to the blood vessels. This affects blood flow, which shows up in various forms. In more severe cases, or when left unchecked, vasculitis may lead to life-threatening conditions such as aneurysm, arrhythmia, coronary heart disease, deep vein thrombosis, heart attack, high blood pressure, low blood pressure, kidney disease, myocarditis, stroke, and transient ischemic attack (TIA).