Chronic inflammatory conditions are conditions in which inflammation produced by the immune system causes local or systemic (all body) symptoms over a long period of time. Chronic inflammation can go on for weeks or years depending on the person and what is causing the inflammation. In general, inflammation is the physical reaction of the immune cells in response to a foreign intruder or physical injury. It usually does not become problematic until it lasts for longer than a few days or weeks.
The longer that chronic inflammation lasts in a particular area, the more damage it can do to the surrounding tissues. This prevents that area from healing or repairing damaged tissues. It can also lead to severe discomfort or debilitation over time.
Chronic inflammation can sometimes be hard to diagnose or define. There are limited conventional treatments for chronic inflammation, which commonly include steroids or pain medications. Because chronic inflammation in and of itself is not a diagnosable disease, many people with chronic inflammation are dismissed by their doctors as being fine, normal, or “just getting older.” Many of our patients come in with a diagnosis of “well that’s just how you are.”
Chronic inflammation comes in many forms and affects many different locations. It can also be very different amongst different people. It can be in the form of arthritis, abdominal discomfort, neurological symptoms, or skin rashes. Some common symptoms of chronic inflammation include:
Headaches
Foggy Brain or Difficulty Concentrating
Nasal Congestion
Ear Congestion
Eye Pain or Baggy Eyes
Goiter
Swollen lymph nodes
Abdominal Pain or Discomfort
Gas and Bloating
Acid Reflux or Regurgitation
Constipation or Diarrhea
Joint Pain or Swelling
Skin Rashes
Hair Thinning or Falling Out
Anxiety
Depression
Difficulty Sleeping
Fatigue
Weight Gain or Water Retention
If you think that you may have symptoms of chronic inflammation, call our office today to schedule an appointment with one of our knowledgeable physicians.