Inflammation, often associated with pain and swelling, can manifest in various subtle ways that may go unnoticed or be attributed to other factors. Understanding these lesser-known symptoms of inflammation is crucial for identifying underlying health issues and taking proactive steps towards healing and wellness.
Symptoms of Inflammation
- Daytime Fatigue: Feeling excessively tired despite getting an adequate amount of sleep could be a sign of inflammation. Chronic inflammation can disrupt the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, leading to poor sleep quality and daytime fatigue. Inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia are often accompanied by persistent fatigue, impacting daily functioning and quality of life.
- Mood Changes: Inflammation doesn't just affect the body—it can also impact mood and mental well-being. Research suggests a bidirectional relationship between inflammation and mood disorders like depression and anxiety. Elevated levels of inflammatory markers in the blood have been linked to changes in mood, cognition, and behavior. Individuals with chronic inflammation may experience irritability, mood swings, apathy, or a sense of hopelessness.
- Changes in Bowel Movements: Inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract can lead to alterations in bowel habits, including diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and abdominal discomfort. Conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and celiac disease involve inflammation of the intestines, causing gastrointestinal symptoms that may fluctuate in severity.
- Skin Changes (Rashes, Redness, and Dryness): The skin serves as a mirror reflecting internal health, and inflammation can manifest as various skin changes. Chronic inflammation can trigger or exacerbate skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, and acne. Symptoms may include redness, itching, rashes, flakiness, dryness, or the formation of painful nodules and lesions.
- Unexpected Weight Loss or Gain: Sudden changes in weight, whether loss or gain, can be a sign of underlying inflammation. Inflammatory conditions like autoimmune diseases, certain cancers, and metabolic disorders can disrupt metabolic processes, leading to unexplained weight fluctuations. Chronic inflammation may also affect appetite regulation and nutrient absorption, contributing to unintended changes in body weight.
Recognising these lesser-known symptoms of inflammation empowers you to seek timely medical evaluation and intervention. Alongside conventional treatments, incorporating natural remedies into your wellness routine can complement your efforts to combat inflammation and promote overall health.
One such natural remedy is Roogenic's inflammation range, which harnesses the power of Australian native plants known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Ingredients like Native Lemongrass, Lemon Myrtle, and Native River Mint have been traditionally used by Indigenous Australians for their medicinal benefits, including reducing inflammation and supporting digestive health.