Answer Key – Vasculitis
True — Vasculitis means inflammation (swelling and irritation) of the blood vessels.
False — Vasculitis can affect many organs, not just the skin. It can affect kidneys, lungs, heart, nerves, and more.
True — Taking medications exactly as prescribed helps prevent damage to organs.
True — Unexplained weight loss is a common symptom of vasculitis.
True — Smoking harms blood vessels and can worsen vasculitis.
False — Salt intake should be limited, especially when taking steroids, to avoid swelling and high blood pressure.
True — Some medicines for vasculitis lower your immune system, increasing infection risk.
True — Feeling tired or fatigued is a common symptom of vasculitis.
False — You should never stop your medicine without talking to your doctor, even if you feel better.
True — Fever may signal infection or a flare and should be reported to your doctor.
True — Vasculitis can damage organs such as the kidneys and heart if untreated.
True — Washing hands often helps lower the risk of infections, especially when on immunosuppressants.
True — Corticosteroids can cause weight gain and mood changes among other side effects.
True — Avoid raw or undercooked meat or fish to reduce infection risk while on immune-suppressing medicines.
True — Mild joint pain may signal disease activity and should be reported.
True — Severe shortness of breath can be a medical emergency and requires calling 911.
True — Keeping follow-up appointments is important to monitor your health.
False — Vasculitis usually requires treatment and does not always go away on its own.
True — Managing stress can improve overall health and help with disease management.
True — Alcohol can interfere with medications and weaken your immune system, so it should be limited.