bone, joint, and muscle disorders
Overview of Vasculitis
Symptoms of Vasculitis
Symptoms of vasculitis may result from direct damage to the blood vessels or from indirect damage to tissues (such as nerves or organs) whose blood supply has been disrupted or reduced (ischemia). Symptoms vary depending on the size and location of the affected blood vessels and the degree of damage caused to the affected organs. For example, the following may occur: Skin:A rash of bluish purple spots (hemorrhages) or blotches (purpura), hives, small bumps (nodules), tiny spots (petechiae), mottled discoloration caused by dilated surface blood vessels (livedo reticularis), or sores (ulcers) on the lower legs Peripheral nerves:Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected limb Brain:Confusion, seizures, and strokes Digestive tract:Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and blood in the stool Heart:Angina and heart attacks Kidneys:High blood pressure, retention of fluid (edema), and kidney dysfunction Joints:Joint pain or swelling Inflammation can also cause general symptoms such as fever, night sweats, fatigue, muscle aches, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Vasculitis can cause serious complications that require immediate treatment. For example, damaged blood vessels in the lungs, brain, or other organs may bleed (hemorrhage). Effects on the kidneys may progress rapidly, leading to Overview of Kidney Failure . Eye problems may result in blindness. 