Rheumatoid Vasculitis is an autoimmune disorder that affects the blood vessels.

Learn more about the symptoms, diagnosis and treatments available here.

Rheumatoid Vasculitis is a rare autoimmune disorder which affects the blood vessels.

It can have serious complications, including tissue damage and potential organ failure, but with prompt diagnosis and effective treatments, it's possible to manage the symptoms and even restore normal function.

Common Symptoms of Rheumatoid Vasculitis.

The symptoms of Rheumatoid Vasculitis will vary from person to person and depend on the specific organs that are affected.

Common signs and symptoms include fatigue, joint and muscle pain, skin rashes, nodules under the skin or around joints, fever, weight loss or gain, night sweats, chest pains and breathing problems.

Furthermore, there may be blood vessel involvement causing inflamed blood vessels in the eyes as well as red patches on the mucous membranes or lesions on other parts of the body.

Diagnosis and Differential Diagnosis For Rheumatoid Vasculitis.

Diagnosis of Rheumatoid Vasculitis can be challenging because there is no single test or criteria to diagnose it. 

Doctors must look at a combination of physical symptoms, lab tests and imaging studies. 

Differential diagnosis is also important in determining that the patient actually has Rheumatoid Vasculitis, as opposed to another condition such as Lupus or Churg-Strauss Syndrome.

This can involve further blood tests, imaging, biopsies and even genetic testing.

Treatment Options Available for Rheumatoid Vasculitis.

Treatment for rheumatoid vasculitis depends on the severity and location of the inflammation, but may include medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids (to reduce inflammation), and biologic therapies (such as rituximab, tocilizumab, or abatacept to modify immune response). Surgery may also be necessary in severe cases. 

In addition to medication, lifestyle changes are also important in managing this condition; these can include quitting smoking, exercise and stress management.

Complications Associated with Rheumatoid Vasculitis. 

Complications of rheumatoid vasculitis can include damage to the internal organs, skin lesions, and limb amputations. 

The inflammation caused by the condition can be life-threatening if it goes untreated, leading to complications such as blockages in the blood vessels, stroke, lung disease, and kidney failure. 

In more severe cases, inflammation can result in suicide due to psychological distress. Early diagnosis and timely treatment are critical for preventing these complications.

Lifestyle Changes to Reduce the Risk of Flare-Ups of Rheumatoid Vasculitis.

To reduce the risk of flare-ups, it is important to make certain lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet and exercising regularly. 

Eating a diet high in fresh vegetables and fruits, as well as whole grains and lean proteins, can help keep inflammation under control.

Regular exercise helps to promote good cardiovascular health and reduce stress levels.

It is also important to avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, which can worsen symptoms of rheumatoid vasculitis.