Angiitis is a rare condition that causes inflammation of blood vessels, leading to constriction and reduced blood flow. It can be caused by an immune system response, infection, medication or other conditions. Symptoms vary and can affect different organs. Treatment involves reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune system, with over-the-counter or prescribed medication. Early diagnosis and treatment can lead to remission, but in some cases, lifelong treatment may be necessary. In rare cases, the condition can be fatal.
Angiitis, also known as vasculitis and arteritis, is a rare condition that refers to inflammation of blood vessels. The inflammation causes the blood vessel walls to constrict, preventing blood flow. Angiitis can arise if an individual’s immune system accidentally turns on their blood vessels. This condition can occur due to an infection, a medication, or certain conditions.
People of any age, race, or gender can be affected by angiitis. However, a person with an autoimmune disease such as lupus, arthritis or scleroderma may be more susceptible to the condition. Other factors, such as smoking or having a chronic hepatitis B or C infection, can also make an individual more prone to vasculitis.
Signs and symptoms of angiitis differ depending on the type and organs affected. One person may have almost no symptoms while another individual will become very ill. Additionally, the signs and symptoms of the condition may develop slowly or occur over a matter of days or weeks.
Typical syndromes include fever, fatigue, weight loss, and general pain. Angiitis can affect a wide range of body parts, including the skin, joints, lungs, eyes, nerves, and even the brain. A variety of tests can help diagnose the condition. Some of the more common ways to make a diagnosis include a blood test, biopsy, urinalysis, and MRI.
Treatment for angiitis aims to reduce inflammation in blood vessels and suppress the immune system. Containment of vasculitis depends on the severity of the condition and the organs involved. Individuals with a mild form of the condition can usually be treated with over-the-counter medications, including aspirin or acetaminophen.
Severe forms of angiitis can usually be treated with prescribed cortisone-type medications. Corticosteroids help reduce swelling of blood vessels. If cortisone-related medicine doesn’t work, cytotoxic drugs that destroy the cells responsible for the inflammation may be prescribed. Surgery is very rarely used to treat the condition. In some severe cases, surgery may be needed to get rid of the abnormal bumps in the lining of the blood vessels.
Treatment often proves effective against vasculitis. If the condition is diagnosed early and treated right away, arteritis often goes into remission. However, in some cases, the condition may recur or in some cases never enter hospitalization and an individual will require treatment for the rest of their life. In very rare cases, a person may not respond to treatment and the condition could cause death.
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