Understanding Vasculitis: When Blood Vessels Become Inflamed
Vasculitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the blood vessels, which can affect arteries, veins, and capillaries throughout the body. Because blood vessels are responsible for transporting oxygen and nutrients to organs and tissues, any inflammation in these pathways can disrupt normal bodily functions. Vasculitis is not a single disease but a group of disorders that vary widely in severity, causes, and symptoms.
At its core, vasculitis occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks blood vessel walls. This immune response causes swelling, thickening, or narrowing of the vessels, restricting blood flow. In some cases, vessels may weaken and form bulges known as aneurysms, which carry a risk of rupture. The reduced circulation can lead to tissue damage and, if untreated, permanent organ impairment.
The symptoms of vasculitis depend on which organs are affected. General signs often include fatigue, fever, weight loss,…
