Often-Missed Symptoms Pointing Towards Autoimmune Disease

Lisette Marie

15. Persistent Low-Grade Fever: The Immune System on Simmer

Ill sick young afro woman lying in bed with high fever looking at the thermometer. Photo Credit: Envato @insidecreativehouse

A low-grade fever that lingers for weeks—never high enough to worry, but never going away—can be your immune system signaling chronic inflammation. Unlike fevers caused by infection, autoimmune fevers tend to hover around 99–100°F and are often accompanied by fatigue, joint stiffness, or brain fog. Conditions like lupus, Still’s disease, or mixed connective tissue disease commonly present with this subtle thermal clue. These “invisible fevers” are easy to overlook, especially when they don’t knock you off your feet. But if your body feels slightly warm day after day, it's worth investigating what's quietly burning beneath the surface.

16. Nail Changes: Small Clues with Big Meaning

Close-up of brittle nails. Damage to nail after using shellac or gel polish. Peeling on the nails. Photo Credit: Envato @AlenaIvochkina

Your nails can reveal more than grooming habits—they can point to autoimmune dysfunction. Pitting (tiny dents), ridges, thickening, or discoloration may signal diseases like psoriasis, lupus, or lichen planus. Inflammatory conditions often disrupt nail growth, while poor circulation caused by autoimmune vascular issues can turn nails blue or brittle. Nail changes are easy to dismiss or blame on diet, but they’re windows into systemic health. If your nails are changing shape, texture, or color without clear reason, bring it up with your doctor. These subtle shifts might be early signs of something your immune system has already noticed.

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15. Persistent Low-Grade Fever: The Immune System on Simmer

16. Nail Changes: Small Clues with Big Meaning

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