Inflammation is a natural response by the body’s immune system, protecting it from injury and infection. However, if this response becomes chronic, it can lead to many harmful conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, and cancer.

Since chronic inflammation is often asymptomatic, it goes unnoticed for years until a condition develops. Here are the warning signs and symptoms of chronic inflammation so you can identify them and take appropriate action.

1. Digestive Issues

If you frequently experience digestive issues such as diarrhea or constipation, abdominal pain, gas, or bloating, you may have chronic inflammation.

These symptoms are usually caused by inflammation of the gut lining due to an unhealthy diet, food allergies, or stress. Chronic inflammation can damage gut tissues, leading to digestive disorders such as leaky gut syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

2. Fatigue

Chronic fatigue can be an early sign of chronic inflammation. If you feel tired all the time despite getting enough sleep, your body may be fighting a low-grade inflammation.

Inflammation triggers the release of cytokines, which can interfere with sleep and cause fatigue. Moreover, chronic inflammation disrupts the body’s energy production, making you feel weak and exhausted.

3. Skin Problems

Chronic inflammation can cause various skin problems such as acne, psoriasis, eczema, and rosacea. These conditions are characterized by redness, itching, rashes, and inflammation.

Inflammation triggers the release of histamines, which dilate blood vessels and cause redness and swelling. Moreover, chronic inflammation weakens the skin barrier, allowing allergens and toxins to penetrate the skin and cause further irritation.

4. Joint Pain

If you experience joint pain and stiffness that lasts for a long time, you may have chronic inflammation. Inflammation can damage the joint tissues, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness.

This condition is known as arthritis, which affects over 50 million adults in the US. Chronic inflammation can also cause other musculoskeletal disorders such as fibromyalgia and chronic back pain.

5. Headaches

If you suffer from frequent headaches or migraines, your body may be undergoing chronic inflammation. Inflammation can cause changes in the brain chemistry, making it more sensitive to pain signals.

Moreover, chronic inflammation can trigger the release of inflammatory mediators, which increase the risk of migraines and headaches. Inflammation-induced headaches can be severe and persistent, affecting your quality of life.

6. Weight Gain

If you keep gaining weight despite eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly, you may have chronic inflammation. Inflammation disrupts the hormonal balance, causing insulin resistance and metabolic disorders.

Moreover, inflammation triggers the release of adipokines, which promote the accumulation of fat cells. Chronic inflammation can also cause leptin resistance, making it hard for your body to control your appetite and cravings.

7. Mood Disorders

Mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder are often linked to chronic inflammation. Inflammation increases the levels of cytokines, which can interfere with neurotransmitters and cause mood swings.

Moreover, chronic inflammation can cause oxidative stress, which damages brain cells and impairs mental function. Inflammation can also trigger the release of stress hormones, such as cortisol, which can exacerbate anxiety and depression.

8. Allergies and Asthma

If you suffer from allergies or asthma, you may have chronic inflammation. Allergic reactions and asthma attacks are triggered by inflammation of the airways and nasal passages.

Inflammation causes swelling, mucus production, and constriction of airways, leading to breathing difficulties and other symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness. Chronic inflammation can worsen allergies and asthma, making them harder to manage.

9. Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis are characterized by chronic inflammation. In autoimmune diseases, the immune system attacks the body’s own cells and tissues, causing inflammation and tissue damage.

Chronic inflammation can also trigger autoimmune diseases by creating the conditions for self-attacking antibodies to form. People with autoimmune diseases often suffer from a range of symptoms such as joint pain, fatigue, skin problems, and mood disorders.

10. High Blood Pressure

If you have high blood pressure or hypertension, you may have chronic inflammation. Inflammation can cause vasoconstriction, or the narrowing of blood vessels, leading to high blood pressure.

Moreover, chronic inflammation damages the blood vessel walls, making them less elastic and more prone to plaque buildup. This condition, known as atherosclerosis, can lead to heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems.

If you experience any of these warning signs of chronic inflammation, it is essential to see a doctor and get a proper diagnosis.

Chronic inflammation can be managed with lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, stress reduction, and supplements. However, in some cases, medication or other medical treatments may be required.