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Signs and Symptoms of Wegener's Disease

Wegener's disease, or Wegener's granulomatosis, is a condition in which blood vessels and other tissues become inflamed. This inflammation restricts blood flow, which then causes symptoms throughout the body. The condition is rare, affecting only one in 20,000 individuals, according to the Vasculitis Foundation. The cause of Wegener's disease is unknown, but it is not contagious, and there is no known genetic predisposition. Symptoms can develop at any age, according to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease. With proper early treatment, patients can make a full recovery, but the condition can be fatal if untreated.

  1. Sinus and Respiratory Symptoms

    • Wegener's disease can cause symptoms in the sinuses and respiratory tract, including a chronically runny nose, ear infections, persistent cough, pain and inflammation in the sinuses, nosebleeds and ear infections. Other respiratory symptoms that can develop in Wegener's patients include a narrowing of the trachea, shortness of breath and bloody sputum. In about 90 percent of Wegener's patients, the first sign of the condition is a chronic cold or runny nose that does not respond to treatment. Although the symptoms are often attributed to a cold or other common illness, they persist for much longer than a typical infection.

    Fatigue

    • Wegener's granulomatosis can also lead to fatigue and general weakness. In some cases, this is due to a low red blood cell count, which causes anemia, according to the Mayo Clinic. Some people also complain of a lack of energy and loss of appetite, which can lead to weight loss.

    Pain

    • About two-thirds of people with Wegener's disease will experience joint or muscle pain as a result of the condition, according to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease. The pain, which can be accompanied by swelling in the joints, does not cause permanent damage to the joints or muscle tissue.

    Eye Symptoms

    • Wegener's granulomatosis can also cause several eye conditions, including conjunctivitis, or pink eye. Other conditions that can affect the eyes include scleritis, episcleritis and lesions behind the globe of the eye. These conditions can cause pain, redness, itching or burning in and around the eye, according to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease. People with Wegener's disease who develop a sudden worsening of vision or double vision should seek medical help immediately.

    Skin Symptoms

    • Wegener's disease can also cause lesions on the skin that appear as small, red or purple bumps, ulcers or nodules. The lesions, which affect about half of Wegener's sufferers, are not always painful, according to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease.

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