Several factors can increase a person's risk of developing vasculitis, a group of diseases that cause inflammation of blood vessels.
Risk Factors for Vasculitis:
- Age: Vasculitis can occur at any age, but some types are more common in certain age groups. For example, Giant cell arteritis, a type of vasculitis affecting the arteries in the head and neck, primarily affects people over 50.
- Genetics: Having a family history of vasculitis can increase your risk.
- Infections: Certain infections, such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV, can trigger vasculitis.
- Autoimmune diseases: People with autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, have a higher risk of developing vasculitis.
- Certain medications: Some medications, such as penicillin and sulfa drugs, can cause vasculitis as a side effect.
- Smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for vasculitis.
- Certain medical conditions: Conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol can increase the risk of vasculitis.
Who is at the Highest Risk?
While the exact risk factors can vary depending on the specific type of vasculitis, individuals with a combination of the risk factors listed above are at the highest risk.
It's important to remember that these are just risk factors, and not everyone who has them will develop vasculitis. However, being aware of these factors can help individuals take steps to manage their risk.
