Can vasculitis cause permanent vein damage?

Question

Which specialist would I go to, to biopsy my vein. I have vasculitis and have had many flare ups on my legs and for the last six months if I sit for longer than 5 min. my legs start to fall asleep. Sleeping is hard becuase I have to keep getting up to get the feeling back in my legs. Also, would this be considered PAD (peripheral artery disease)? or a symptom of the vasculitis?

Answer 1

I think the source depends on your age - typically peripheral artery disease is going to affect an older demographic (or slightly younger if there is a history of hypertension, high cholesterol or younger still if there is a history of diabetes).

The sensation of your legs falling asleep is probably related both to decreased blood flow and neuropathy (nerve involvement).  Another question would be why you have vasculitis - any history of autoimmune disease?  It could potentially be caused by the pooling of blood due to lack of circulation.

Your symptoms aren't clear cut for one or the other - your first stop should be a vascular surgeon - they specialize in all things veins and arteries.  Your second stop should be an internist who can examine you for potential sources and refer your to the correct specialist (rheumatology for instance).

I am very sorry that you are having such a rough time - with the appropriate care and some good answers from your doctors things should start looking up for you.  There are ways to treat all of your symptoms.

Your initial question - can vasculitis cause permanent vein damage?  Over time and if it persists than yes - there can be scarring which will decrease their effectiveness.  If it is only a short duration, then it should resolve completely - keep in mind that it will take a long time because the veins don't get their blood from the blood they carry, it has to come from the tissues around them.

Best wishes.