Are You Tired of being Tired?

Signs of Chronic Inflammation

You’re Always Fatigued

It’s one of the typical signs of long-term inflammation and a common sign of inflammatory diseases like fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis. Talk to Dr. Jerome Carter and Dr. Okezie N. Okezie, if you have a sudden drop in energy. It could be a sign of an underlying illness. It may be treatable, too.

Balance Problems

Chronic inflammatory diseases (CIDs) cause your body to overreact and, in some cases, attack itself. In multiple sclerosis, for example, your body’s immune system attacks nerve coatings. That makes it harder for nerve signals to get through. You may feel dizzy or off-balance, especially when you walk.

Muscle Weakness

Sometimes your immune system mistakenly attacks and inflames your muscles (your doctor may call it myositis). This could start to break down muscle fiber and make you weaker. It usually happens slowly, most often in your torso, shoulders, and hips. In some cases, you might find it hard to do simple things like walk, bathe, and swallow.

Lower Back Pain

In ankylosing spondylitis, chronic inflammation typically attacks the spine. Sometimes, it hits your hips, neck, knees, or chest. You might have pain and stiffness in your lower back, especially in the morning. In serious cases, you could have loss of motion. Talk to Dr. Jerome Carter and Dr. Okezie N. Okezie,  if you notice any symptoms. Early treatment can help you manage your condition better.

Livedo Reticularis Rash

This purplish, marbled rash looks webbed like lace. Inflammatory conditions (like lupus and antiphospholipid syndrome) can cause it. You’d usually get this on your arms and legs. You might notice it more in the cold.

There’s not much you can do to treat the rash itself, but your doctor may be able to treat the problem that causes it. Your rash might go away on its own. Talk to Dr. Jerome Carter and Dr. Okezie N. Okezie, if it doesn’t or if you notice nodules or sores.  

Dry Eye

It’s a common symptom of inflammation. One condition, Sjogren’s syndrome, affects your salivary glands and your tear glands. You might notice a gritty or burning feeling in your eyes, swelling in your salivary gland, and dryness in your nose and throat. Talk to Dr. Jerome Carter and Dr. Okezie N. Okezie, can prescribe medication to help ease your symptoms and keep away serious complications like vision loss and dental problems.

Brain Issues

Your memory and your ability to think are likely to take a hit if your body shows signs of inflammation. Scientists continue to study the link. Early findings suggest that inflammation may contribute to Alzheimer’s disease and other conditions that cause dementia. This is especially true in older adults. Healthy eating plans and diet seem to ease inflammation and might keep your brain sharp for longer.

These are just a few signs that could be caused by chronic inflammation. Talk to one of our providers for more information about your body and the way it is responding to chronic inflammation. We at APMS of Greater Houston want to help you feel your best every day. APMS of Greater Houston serves the North and East Houston regions with two locations. APMS of Baytown and APMS of Humble.

Author

Kim Bergeron Kim Bergeron has been published in local news, magazine and media print since 2004. Her background in media, journalism and health has given her a broad base from which to approach many topics. Her writing skills may be confirmed independently on NewspaperArchive.com. She especially enjoys topics in her field of interests which are humanitarian, health and wellness. You may learn more about her work with APMS of Greater Houston at www.apmsbaytown.com.