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Treatment
The earlier polyarteritis nodosa is diagnosed the better. Treatment should be vigorous, with the goal of treatment being to reduce the inflammation of the arteries and put the condition into remission (period during which symptoms of a disease disappear).
Without treatment, the condition may be fatal. Complications from polyarteritis nodosa include stroke, kidney failure, heart attack, and permanent tissue damage of the intestines.
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include the following:
Corticosteroids
High doses of these steroids, by injection or by mouth, can reduce inflammation of the arteries.
Immunosuppressive Drugs
Suppressing the immune system helps decrease inflammation of the arteries by countering the body’s autoimmune reaction.
Antiviral Drugs
When hepatitis B or C is present, antiviral medications are helpful in addition to immunosuppressive drugs.