Hidden Fire: Early Signs of Silent Inflammation

17. Frequent Colds & Slow Healing: A Compromised Defense

While inflammation is part of immunity, chronic inflammation can paradoxically exhaust or misdirect your immune system. If you find yourself catching every passing cold, experiencing frequent minor infections (like recurring yeast infections or gum inflammation), or noticing that cuts and bruises take an unusually long time to heal, it could be a subtle signal. Your body's resources are perpetually tied up in low-grade internal warfare, leaving fewer resources to effectively fight off external invaders or repair everyday damage.

18. Hair Thinning/Loss: A Stress on Follicles

Unexpected hair thinning, excessive shedding, or even sudden onset alopecia (patchy hair loss) can be a surprising signal of chronic inflammation. Inflammation impacts the delicate hair follicle environment, disrupting its natural growth cycle. It can stress the body's systems, divert nutrients away from non-essential functions like hair growth, and contribute to hormonal imbalances that manifest as hair loss. This isn't just about genetics; it's a visual cue that your body might be dealing with systemic inflammatory stress.