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8 common warning signs of vasculitis

8 common warning signs of vasculitis

Vasculitis is a group of rare and complex autoimmune disorders involving blood vessel inflammation. This can affect any body part, from the skin to vital organs like the heart and kidneys. While these disorders are uncommon, early recognition and diagnosis are crucial for effective treatment and management. Continue reading to explore the top eight common warning signs of vasculitis that can help individuals seek timely medical attention to improve their condition.

Persistent fatigue
One of the initial signs of vasculitis that individuals may experience is persistent fatigue. This is often more than just feeling tired post-exertion; it’s an unrelenting exhaustion that doesn’t improve with rest. Vasculitis can lead to inflammation throughout the body, causing the immune system to work overtime. As a result, the body becomes chronically fatigued, impacting a person’s ability to perform daily activities.

Recurrent unexplained fever
Frequent unexplained fevers can be another warning sign of vasculitis. These fevers often occur due to the body’s immune system trying to combat the inflammation in the blood vessels. If one experiences recurrent fevers without apparent cause, one should consult a healthcare provider for further examination.

Skin changes
Many types of vasculitis can manifest with skin changes as a prominent symptom. These skin changes can vary in appearance and severity. Some common skin-related warning signs of vasculitis include:

  • Petechiae and Purpura: Small red or purple colored spots or larger patches on the skin may indicate vasculitis affecting small blood vessels near the skin’s surface.
  • Skin rashes : Some individuals with vasculitis develop rashes in various forms, from red, raised bumps to hives or blisters.

Joint pain and swelling
Joint involvement is common in several forms of vasculitis, such as rheumatoid vasculitis and giant cell arteritis. Affected individuals may experience joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, often mimicking the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. If joint issues persist or worsen, a rheumatologist can help differentiate between vasculitis-related joint problems and other conditions.

Vision changes
Vision changes can be a particularly significant warning sign for those with giant cell arteritis (GCA), a type of vasculitis that predominantly affects the arteries around the head and neck. This can lead to ischemic optic neuropathy, which may cause sudden and severe vision loss in one or both eyes. Other vision-related symptoms may include blurred vision, double vision, or eye pain.

Nerve problems
Vasculitis can affect the nervous system, leading to a wide range of neurological symptoms. These can include numbness or tingling in the extremities, weakness, difficulty walking, and even more severe complications like seizures or strokes. Neurological symptoms should never be ignored, and individuals experiencing them should seek medical care promptly.

Respiratory issues
Certain types of vasculitis, such as granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) and eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA), can target the respiratory system. Symptoms may include:

  • Chronic sinusitis : Persistent sinus infections or sinus pain.
  • Cough: A chronic cough that doesn’t respond to conventional treatments.
  • Shortness of breath : Difficulty in breathing, especially during a physical activity.
  • Chest pain: Chest discomfort that may be sharp or dull.

Respiratory symptoms can sometimes be attributed to other conditions, but if they persist or worsen, it’s crucial to consult a certified medical professional for further evaluation.

Kidney problems
Some forms of vasculitis, like microscopic polyangiitis and granulomatosis with polyangiitis, can affect the kidneys, leading to a condition known as vasculitic nephritis. Warning signs of kidney involvement include blood in the urine, excess protein in the urine, and swelling in the legs or face due to fluid retention. Kidney problems should be promptly addressed to prevent further damage.

Finally, one must remember that while the symptoms of vasculitis can be diverse and sometimes subtle, recognizing the common warning signs is essential for early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. So, seeking medical attention promptly is crucial if one has any of the symptoms mentioned above. Here, specialists like rheumatologists, dermatologists, nephrologists, or other relevant specialists can provide a thorough evaluation. This can further aid the doctor in developing a tailored treatment plan to manage vasculitis and its associated symptoms. This can aid the patient in improving their quality of life and continuing their daily activities without frequent issues. But, one must remember that early diagnosis can make a significant difference in managing the condition to prevent potential complications.

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Understanding arthritis – A common joint condition

The joints are constantly working while we move our limbs, so, understandably, people may develop certain joint conditions that cause pain and compromise mobility, especially with age. One of the common joint conditions is arthritis, which leads to joint inflammation and mild to severe pain. While there are several types of arthritis, the two most common types are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Stages Rheumatoid arthritis has four stages: Stage 1: At this stage, inflammation occurs inside the joints, and swelling, stiffness, and joint pain are the common symptoms. Stage 2: The inflammation of the joint lining, synovium, aggravates at this stage and results in cartilage damage. The affected joints’ range of motion is also compromised, causing pain and discomfort. Stage 3: At this stage, the severity of the joint condition increases, and it leads to bone damage. This results in more pain, loss of mobility, and weakness of muscles. The bones rubbing against each other can cause bone deformity as well. Stage 4: This is the final stage where the joints stop functioning completely. It leads to more pain, stiffness, and swelling, and the bones may even fuse, which is known as ankylosis. Osteoarthritis also has four stages of progression: Stage 1: Wear and tear may affect the knee joints, and minor spur growths on the affected bone can also be seen, but the condition does not cause too much pain at this stage. Stage 2: The bone spur growths increase and cause pain, and the knee joints become stiffer. Stage 3: This stage is characterized by joint inflammation leading to increased pain and stiffness. Walking can also cause popping sounds in the joints. Stage 4: The space between the bones in the joints becomes very narrow, causing the cartilage to wear down. Also, a chronic inflammatory response caused by the breakdown of cartilage aggravates discomfort and pain. Diagnosis of arthritis These joint conditions can be diagnosed using several tests. A physical examination reveals whether a patient has red, warm, and tender joints, and this test also helps examine the fluid around the joints. A rheumatologist can analyze the level of inflammation in the joints to determine the type of arthritis an individual is affected with. Also, blood tests are undertaken to check for antibodies like anti-CCP, rheumatoid factor, and antinuclear antibody. In addition, X-ray, CT scans, and MRI are also performed to check the condition of the cartilage and bones. Prevention of arthritis A family history of joint conditions like arthritis or aging can increase one’s risk of developing arthritis, but making certain lifestyle changes can also help lower the chances of developing the condition. To start with, one should include more foods with omega-3 fatty acids in their diet as these healthy fats are anti-inflammatory. One should also exercise regularly, keep their weight under check, reduce stress on their joints, and try to avoid injuries. Also, if one notices any symptoms of arthritis, they should consult a doctor immediately as early diagnosis goes a long way in managing the condition effectively through timely treatment.

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5 ways to improve immunity against severe respiratory viruses

The development of vaccines is vital for fighting against emerging viruses and the ongoing quest for global health security. The COVID-19 pandemic has emphasized the importance of vaccines in controlling the spread of infectious diseases. Among the many vaccines developed, the GSK Novavax vaccine is a promising addition to the healthcare armory. This article explores the key information about the vaccine and discusses broader strategies for improving immunity against new-age viruses. The pandemic's role in increasing respiratory illnesses The pandemic is responsible for a host of lung issues. The COVID-19 infection has been medically found to damage the walls and linings of the air sacs within the lungs. The body's reaction to this results in the lungs becoming inflamed and filled with fluid. This directly results in respiratory issues like hypoxia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, severe acute respiratory syndrome, common cold, and upper airway congestion. Treatment options for respiratory illnesses Oxygen therapy Oxygen therapy is administered through nasal prongs or masks. It helps improve oxygen levels in cases of hypoxemia. Pulmonary rehabilitation This comprehensive program includes exercise, education, and support for individuals with chronic respiratory conditions to improve lung function and overall quality of life. Vaccination Preventive measures like vaccines for influenza and pneumonia may reduce the risk of certain respiratory infections. Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines and non-mRNA vaccines help combat respiratory infections in different ways. Here's a comparison of how they function and their benefits in addressing respiratory infections: Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines Introduction of antigen mRNA vaccines provide genetic instructions to cells to produce a fragment of the target pathogen's antigen. In the case of COVID-19, they instruct cells to produce a spike protein from the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Immune response The immune system recognizes the produced antigen as foreign and mounts an immune response. This includes producing antibodies and activating T cells specific to the antigen. Memory cells formation Memory B and T cells, which "remember" the antigen, are generated. This provides long-term immunity, as these cells can respond rapidly if the person is exposed to the actual virus in the future. Adaptive immunity mRNA vaccines stimulate the adaptive immune system, which is highly specific to the target pathogen. This specificity helps provide robust protection against the specific virus for which the vaccine was designed. Non-mRNA Vaccines Introduction of antigen Non-mRNA vaccines use various methods to introduce the antigen to the immune system. Inactivated vaccines use killed virus particles, subunit vaccines use specific protein fragments, and vector-based vaccines use another virus as a carrier to present the antigen. Immune response Non-mRNA vaccines trigger an immune response against the presented antigen, which includes the production of antibodies and activation of T cells. Memory cells formation Memory cells also form in response to non-mRNA vaccines, contributing to long-term immunity. Different approaches Non-mRNA vaccines employ different technologies, allowing for versatility in vaccine development. They can be adapted to various pathogens, making them suitable for respiratory infections. Novavax is an example of an m-RNA vaccine. It directly infiltrates a version of COVID-19's spike protein and another ingredient that stimulates the body's immune system. This boosts the production of antibodies and T-cells within the body. Best foods for respiratory illnesses Fruits and vegetables These foods are high in antioxidants like vitamin C and beta-carotene, which boost the immune system. Examples of these include oranges, berries, spinach, and carrots. Garlic and onions These foods contain multiple antimicrobial properties, and as a result, they boost respiratory health in people. Nuts and seeds Foods such as walnuts and hazelnuts are packed with vitamin E and magnesium, both of which support lung functionality. Home remedies Adding turmeric to meals Adding turmeric to dishes or consuming turmeric tea regularly helps the immune system. Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and, by extension, immune-enhancing properties. Consuming honey and lemon After mixing them in warm water, both elements soothe one's throat and provide anti-bacterial benefits, both of which help to make one's immunity stronger against respiratory illnesses. Incorporating ginger and garlic into meals Ginger and garlic act against inflammation and help the body combat respiratory illnesses much more efficiently. Lifestyle changes to prevent respiratory illnesses Getting adequate sleep Getting 7-8 hours of quality sleep allows the body to repair and rejuvenate. Getting adequate hydration Staying well-hydrated with water and herbal teas helps maintain mucous membrane health. This makes the body stronger against respiratory conditions like the common cold. Practicing stress management Stress-reduction techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga strengthen the body. Exercises to prevent respiratory illnesses Engaging in regular exercises can bolster the immune system against respiratory illnesses. Additionally, exercises increase overall blood circulation, aiding immune cells in patrolling the body for pathogens. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/symptoms-causes/syc-20479963 https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/understanding/therapy/mrnavaccines/#:~:text=mRNA%20vaccines%20work%20by%20introducing,the%20virus%20by%20the%20vaccine.) https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/novavax-covid-vaccine#:~:text=But%2C%20unlike%20the%20other%20vaccines,of%20antibodies%20and%20T%2Dcells. https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/wellness/breathing-exercises#:~:text=Pursed%20Lip%20Breathing,-This%20exercise%20reduces&text=More%20air%20is%20able%20to,your%20mouth%2C%20with%20pursed%20lips.

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