10 Signs You May Have Chronic Inflammation
Last updated on July 11, 2023
Chronic inflammation often presents as symptoms of other conditions in various parts of the body. Below are common health issues that can result from too much inflammation in the body. If you are experiencing one or more of the following symptoms and are feeling concerned, consult a health practitioner.
Infrequent aches and pains can be a normal response to new physical stress on the body if there is a known cause. However consistent, unexplained body aches and joint pain is not normal. Joint pain may be one of the first signs of chronic inflammation caused by a variety of things.
It can also be a sign of an autoimmune condition such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus or gout caused by an overtaxed immune system releasing unnecessary inflammatory chemicals.
Digestive Issues
Occasional digestive issues are normal, particularly when you deviate from your usual diet or eating schedule. But a digestive issue (such as bloating, diarrhoea, constipation) that is persistent, may be a sign of inflammation in the gut.
The digestive tract is one of the first places inflammatory signs are often seen, and this is because of the role that good bacteria play in creating a protective barrier between what we digest and the rest of the body. When this process gets disrupted, inflammatory compounds can more easily enter the bloodstream, triggering digestive issues and ongoing inflammation.
Frequent Illness
Do you find yourself catching every flu or cold that is going around? No matter what you do? Chronic inflammation is an unhealthy and abnormal immune reaction that leads to an overstimulated and overworked immune system. This means when you come into contact with bacteria and viruses, the body may not be as equipped to fight them off and you may find yourself more susceptible to catching that cold going around.
Stress, diet and sleep play a big role in your immune system function and thus inflammation.
Unexplained Weight Gain
Research suggests excess fat (especially around the midsection) secretes inflammatory compounds that drive chronic inflammation, which means a little extra belly fat is a sign you may already have some inflammation.
Persistent Skin Issues
Ongoing skin issues that won’t go away may be a sign that the body is inflamed. Chronic inflammation is the result of the immune system being overworked and creates a low level of ongoing irritation within the body. This can make the body hypersensitive to things it may ordinarily not react to, and skin irritations may be one way that you see this. There are also some skin conditions (like eczema) that are often caused by the immune system not working like it should.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is a direct result of inflammation built up in the cardiovascular system. Excess Inflammation promotes damage and stiffness to blood vessels. It is recommended to keep on top of even small rises in blood pressure
Fatigue & Brain Fog
Are you feeling lethargic? Maybe forgetful? Inflammation build up in the body can influence energy levels and make you feel more sleepy throughout the day, even with ample sleep.
Memory issues are a big concern relative to chronic inflammation, being a major cause of Alzheimers and other types of dementia.
Allergies & Food Sensitivity
If you have suddenly developed sensitivity to certain foods, your immune system could be overactive due to a constant inflammatory state
Hormone Imbalances
Hormones often work hand-in-hand with the immune system; dysregulation of certain hormones is shown to be associated with the development of chronic inflammation in autoimmune conditions.
Oestrogen and cortisol are main hormones correlated with long-term chronic inflammation and overactive immune system.
Feeling Low In Mood
Research suggests that inflammation in the brain is linked to depression anxiety and other mood disorders. Additionally, chronic inflammation can make us more resistant to medications that treat these mental health conditions.
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This information is general in nature and does not substitute advise tailored to you and your body/circumstance. Please book in a consultation for professional advise.