Living with vasculitis

Overview

Vasculitis is a group of rare conditions that cause inflammation in the blood vessels.

Nicola’s story

In this video, Nicola talks to Rosemary Hollick, a rheumatologist, about her experience of living with vasculitis. They discuss:

• what vasculitis is
• being diagnosed with vasculitis
• different parts of Nicola’s care
• the impact of the diagnosis on her life
• what it’s like living with an invisible rare condition

What is vasculitis?

Vasculitis is a group of rare conditions that cause inflammation in the blood vessels.

Blood vessels in any part of the body can be affected, including the:

• kidneys
• lungs
• skin
• eyes
• ears

People are affected in different ways and to different extents. It can be mild, severe or life threatening.

Support with vasculitis

In her video, Nicola explains some things that have helped her deal with vasculitis. These include:

• having the safety net of healthcare professionals when help is needed
• being reminded that your condition isn’t all of you – seeing yourself as a person and not only as a patient
• talking to someone about her condition, for example a psychiatrist

Find out more about vasculitis from Vasculitis UK

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