Reach Extra
Vasculitis - a big word and a heavy diagnosis
When Emory University Hospital (EUH) cardiology nurse Jane Thomas's husband was diagnosed with vasculitis, she didn't know what to expect. But, in the 13 years since, she and her husband have donated their time to support and educate others on this distressing disease.
What is vasculitis?
According to the Vasculitis Foundation Web site, vasculitis is "an inflammation of the blood vessels, arteries, veins or capillaries. When such inflammation occurs, it causes changes in the walls of blood vessels, such as weakening and narrowing, which can progress to the point of blood vessel blockage." While 85 percent of patients are above the age of 19, vasculitis reportedly affects people ranging from five to 91 years old. And, because of the rarity of vasculitic diseases, it is often hard to recognize the symptoms.
