What Is Arteritis?
Arteritis is inflammation of the arteries. The inflammation can narrow or damage blood vessels, reducing blood flow to organs and tissues. There are several types of arteritis, including giant cell arteritis and Takayasu arteritis, each affecting different arteries and age groups.
Early diagnosis and treatment are important because untreated arteritis can lead to serious complications such as vision loss, stroke, aneurysms, or organ damage.
Why Arteritis Matters
Inflamed arteries may not deliver enough oxygen-rich blood to the body’s tissues. Prompt treatment helps reduce inflammation, preserve blood flow, and prevent permanent damage.
Common Symptoms
- Headache
- Jaw pain while chewing
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Weight loss
- Muscle aches
- Vision changes
- Pain in the arms or legs during activity
Common Types of Arteritis
- Giant cell arteritis
- Takayasu arteritis
- Polyarteritis nodosa
- Other forms of vasculitis affecting arteries
How Is Arteritis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis may include a physical examination, blood tests to measure inflammation, ultrasound, CT scans, MRI, PET scans, angiography, or biopsy of the affected artery.
How Is Arteritis Treated?
Treatment commonly includes corticosteroids, immunosuppressive medications, biologic therapies for selected individuals, and regular monitoring to reduce inflammation and prevent complications.
How Home Care Can Help
Home care professionals assist with medication reminders, monitor symptoms, encourage healthy nutrition and activity, support individuals managing chronic illness, and report changes in health to healthcare providers.
Home Care Tip
Never stop corticosteroid medications suddenly unless instructed by your healthcare provider, as they often require gradual dose reduction.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arteritis
Is arteritis an autoimmune disease?
Many forms of arteritis are autoimmune conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the walls of the arteries.
Can arteritis be cured?
Some individuals achieve long-term remission with treatment, while others require ongoing management to control inflammation.
Can home care help someone with arteritis?
Yes. Home care professionals support medication management, monitor symptoms, encourage healthy routines, and assist with daily activities when needed.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Care
Seek emergency medical attention if you develop sudden vision loss, severe headache, stroke symptoms, chest pain, or signs of reduced blood flow to an arm or leg.