9 subtle signs of hidden inflammation in your body

The trouble with inflammation is that when it hangs around it can lead to incredibly dangerous types of disease. Protect yourself by knowing these warning signs.

Inflammation has been called both a friend and a foe. Acute inflammation is the body’s normal and complex reaction to a threat, whether bacteria, a burn or a sprain. “The body marshals its defences to prevent injury or infection,” says Alan Mensch, a doctor. Signs of acute inflammation include swelling, dilated blood vessels, heat, redness and pain. “Once the threat is gone, there are factors in the bloodstream that quiet things down again.”

The chronic form of inflammation may not be as severe as the acute type, but it is dangerous: It’s related to many illnesses, ranging from bursitis, colitis, phlebitis and rhinitis to asthma, cardiac disease, liver disease and possibly Alzheimer’s disease. It can be difficult to know whether you have chronic inflammation in your body, Dr. Mensch says: “It depends on where and how chronic inflammation manifests itself. And it’s not the same in every person.” Here are some subtle signs to watch for.

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“Tiredness is very commonly associated with chronic inflammation,” says Dr. Mensch. “It’s like you have the flu all the time.” An extensive body of research shows that people who feel chronically tired have higher markers for inflammation and pro-inflammatory compounds.

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Research links chronic inflammation with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In fact, studies show that in people who have RA and other forms of arthritis, the immune system releases inflammatory chemicals that attack the joints, causing swelling, pain and other symptoms.

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Bloating, diarrhoea, cramping and gassiness can be signs of Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome, food allergies, and other stomach ailments – and all are connected to chronic inflammation. Everyone experiences these symptoms occasionally, but if they’re ongoing, tell your doctor.

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Allergy symptoms, including itchy eyes and a stuffy nose, stem from chronic inflammation, research shows. These are signs that your body is trying to tell you something is wrong, says Dr. Mensch.

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“Chronic dermatitis could be a manifestation of chronic inflammation,” Dr. Mensch says. In fact, dermatitis is itself “inflammation of the skin.” If you have a rash that doesn’t go away or red, itchy dry skin patches, check with your doctor.

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People who are suffering from bronchitis are experiencing an inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes. Symptoms include a persistent cough, thickened mucus, wheezing and chest tightening. “This can be a manifestation of chronic inflammation,” says Dr. Mensch.

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Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums at the necks of the teeth. Periodontitis is inflammation affecting the bones and tissues of the teeth. Both may be signs of chronic inflammation. Gingivitis has also been linked to heart attack and stroke, says Dr. Mensch. Thorough teeth brushing, daily flossing and twice-yearly cleanings by a dental hygienist can help alleviate gum problems.

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