What’s Really Going On in Your Blood Vessels?
Vascular inflammation might sound a bit dramatic – and that’s because it kind of is! Picture your blood vessels as smooth, open highways. When vascular inflammation hits, it’s like a sudden traffic pile-up: cars (or cells) get stuck, horns start blaring, and everyone’s trying to squeeze through. For those with lingering symptoms after COVID-19, often called “long COVID,” this traffic jam can be even more problematic.
So, What’s Vascular Inflammation?
In simple terms, vascular inflammation is when your blood vessels become irritated, swollen, and overcrowded with immune cells. Normally, your blood vessels are lined with a thin, smooth layer called the endothelium, which helps things flow easily. But when COVID-19—or any infection—attacks, it can damage this lining. Your immune system rushes in to protect you, but sometimes it overdoes it, leaving persistent inflammation in its wake.
Think of it like firefighters tackling a tiny kitchen fire. Instead of just putting it out, they douse the whole house, leaving a soaked mess that takes ages to clean up.
Blood Changes After COVID: Sticky, Clumpy, and Tricky
COVID-19 doesn’t just irritate blood vessels—it can also make the blood itself behave a bit oddly. Here are a few common issues:
- Clot Formation: COVID-19 seems to make blood extra “sticky.” Platelets (tiny cell fragments that help with clotting) go into overdrive, increasing the risk of blood clots. While clots might seem harmless, they can be dangerous if they travel to the lungs (causing a pulmonary embolism) or the brain (leading to a stroke).
- Microclots: Recent studies suggest COVID-19 may create microclots—tiny, misfolded clots that are tricky to detect with standard tests. These microclots can clog up the smallest blood vessels, contributing to symptoms like fatigue, breathlessness, or brain fog, particularly in long COVID. They’re like the ninja of the clot world—small but potentially impactful.
- High Inflammatory Markers: People with long COVID often show elevated levels of inflammation markers in blood tests, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and fibrinogen. These are the warning flags that your immune system is still on high alert, even though the original infection has long gone.
Symptoms of Vascular Inflammation and Blood Changes
If you’re experiencing vascular inflammation and blood changes after COVID, you might notice a few familiar symptoms:
- Brain Fog and Fatigue: Inflamed blood vessels can make it harder for oxygen to reach the brain, giving you that “stuck in molasses” feeling.
- Shortness of Breath: Microclots and inflammation make it tougher for your lungs to get the oxygen they need. Breathing can feel more like a chore than a natural rhythm.
- Chest Pain: If blood flow to the heart is disrupted, it can feel like your heart’s running a marathon just to keep up. This is a sign to take seriously.
- Tingling and Cold Hands/Feet: Poor circulation might leave your extremities feeling cold or tingly, like when you fall asleep on your arm—but this time, it doesn’t go away as easily.
- Skin Changes: You may notice red patches, rash-like spots, or discolouration and swelling on your skin.
The Bottom Line
Vascular inflammation and blood changes post-COVID are tricky but treatable. From anti-inflammatories to blood thinners and emerging therapies, there are various options to manage inflammation and support blood vessel health. If you’re noticing any of the symptoms mentioned above, talking to a healthcare provider—especially one familiar with cardiovascular issues—can open up potential treatment avenues for you.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment
Long Covid Journey 