Dignity Health: Confident Care for Vasculitis in Arizona

Vasculitis is inflammation of any or all of the blood vessels in the body. It can affect either the arteries or the veins. The condition is grouped into three different types: 

  • Mostly large vessel vasculitis
  • Mostly medium vessel vasculitis
  • Mostly small vessel vasculitis

Vasculitis can be acute — developing quickly but going away with treatment — or chronic — developing gradually and lasting for a long time, even with treatment. More severe cases of vasculitis can be life threatening.

At Dignity Health, our experienced vascular specialists provide leading care to diagnosis and treat all types of vasculitis in Arizona, as part of our cardiovascular services.

 

Vasculitis Symptoms

Symptoms of vasculitis depend on which areas of the body are affected. 

  • If it occurs in the brain’s blood vessels, symptoms may include headache or complete loss of movement (p)aralysis.
  • If it develops in the blood vessels that feed the joints, symptoms can include general aches and pains.
  • When vasculitis affects the entire blood vessel system, symptoms may include feelings of fatigue and sluggishness, along with a fever or loss of appetite. 

Speak with a doctor at Dignity Health if you or a loved one is experiencing one or more of these symptoms. We can diagnose the problem and create a personalized treatment plan for you.

Dignity Health’s Chandler Regional Medical Hospital and St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center are nationally recognized leaders in heart and vascular care. Our multidisciplinary teams offer a full range of care, along with clinical research for improved patient outcomes.

 

Vasculitis Causes

There are many causes of vasculitis. They include certain types of cancer, infections, reactions to medication, and underlying autoimmune disorders. In all cases, the condition results when the immune system attacks the blood vessels in the body.

 

Vasculitis Treatment at Dignity Health

When you meet with one of our vascular specialists to discuss treatment for vasculitis, your doctor may recommend medication to reduce inflammation and stop the immune system from attacking the blood vessels. For severe complications of vasculitis, such as aneurysm, kidney failure, or damaged heart muscle, doctors at Dignity Health can perform surgery to repair the problem.

Dignity Health offers specialized care and treatment for all types of vasculitis in Arizona.