Vasculitis involves inflammation of the blood vessels. The inflammation can cause the walls of the blood vessels to thicken, which reduces the width of the passageway through the vessel. If blood flow is restricted, it can result in organ and tissue damage.
Symptoms:
• Fever
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Digestive system: If your stomach or intestines are affected, you may experience pain after eating. Ulcers and perforations are possible and may result in blood in the stool.
• Ears: Dizziness, ringing in the ears and abrupt hearing loss may occur.
• Eyes: Vasculitis can make your eyes look red and itch or burn. Giant cell arteritis can cause double vision and temporary or permanent blindness in one or both eyes.
• Hands or feet: Some types of vasculitis can cause numbness or weakness in a hand or foot. The palms of the hands and soles of the feet might swell or harden.
• Lungs: You may develop shortness of breath or even cough up blood if vasculitis affects your lungs.
• Skin: Bleeding under the skin can show up as red spots. Vasculitis can also cause lumps or open sores on your skin.
Courtesy: Mayo Clinic