Vasculitis refers to inflammation of blood vessels. It can affect small, medium, or large vessels and may involve the heart, lungs, kidneys, nerves, skin, or other organs. When the heart or major vessels are involved, vasculitis can contribute to chest pain, heart attack, heart failure, valve problems, rhythm issues, aneurysm, or blood-flow complications.
Cardiology care usually focuses on detecting and monitoring heart involvement while coordinating closely with rheumatology and other specialists who manage systemic inflammation.
Symptoms patients may notice
- Chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, or swelling
- Fatigue, fever, weight loss, or signs of systemic inflammation
- Skin rashes, ulcers, numbness, weakness, or organ-specific symptoms
- Known vasculitis diagnosis with concern for cardiac involvement
How we evaluate this condition
- Cardiac symptom review and physical exam
- EKG, echocardiogram, labs, rhythm monitoring, vascular imaging, or advanced imaging when appropriate
- Coordination with rheumatology, nephrology, pulmonology, neurology, or vascular specialists
Treatment and care options
- Cardiac management of blood pressure, rhythm, valve, heart failure, or coronary complications
- Specialist coordination for corticosteroids, immunosuppressive therapy, biologic therapy, or anti-inflammatory treatment when appropriate
- Long-term monitoring for flares and cardiovascular complications
When to seek urgent care
Call 911 for chest pain, stroke symptoms, fainting, severe shortness of breath, or sudden limb symptoms.