Chronic infections

Chronic infections are medical conditions caused by microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites that persist in the body for a long time. They may develop as a result of an initial infection that was not fully cured or when pathogens are able to evade the defense mechanisms of the immune system.

Causes of Chronic Infections:

Pathogens with Special Properties:
- Some microorganisms, such as HIV or bacteria of the genus Mycobacterium (tuberculosis), can hide from the immune system.
- Certain pathogens have the ability to form biofilms (e.g., bacteria responsible for chronic sinus infections), making them more resistant to immune responses and treatment.
Weakened Immune System:
- Can result from diseases such as diabetes or HIV.
- May also be caused by immunosuppressive therapies (e.g., in cancer treatment or after organ transplants).
Inadequate Treatment of the Initial Infection:
- Improper use of antibiotics or antiviral drugs can lead to persistence or recurrence of infection.
Environmental and Lifestyle Factors:
- Chronic stress, malnutrition, or lack of sleep can weaken the body’s defense mechanisms, increasing the risk of persistent infections.

Symptoms of Chronic Infections

The symptoms of chronic infections are varied and can affect different systems of the body. They arise as a result of the long-term presence of pathogens and the ongoing inflammatory response. Below is a wide range of symptoms grouped by category.

General Systemic Symptoms

Chronic fatigue: Persistent feeling of exhaustion that does not go away with rest.
Low-grade fever or fever: Recurrent or sustained elevated body temperature.
Weight loss: Unintentional and unexplained loss of body weight.
Night sweats: Excessive sweating during sleep.
Weakness: Lack of energy and difficulty performing daily activities.

Neurological Symptoms

Headaches: Frequently occurring and often difficult to relieve.
Concentration and memory problems („brain fog”): Issues with clear thinking and difficulty focusing.
Paresthesia: Tingling or numbness in the limbs.
Dizziness: A sense of instability or loss of balance.
Mood changes: Depression, anxiety, or irritability caused by prolonged physiological stress.

Respiratory Symptoms

Chronic cough: Can be dry or accompanied by the expectoration of mucus.
Shortness of breath (dyspnea): Difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity.
Chest pain: May be sharp or present as a feeling of pressure.
Recurrent sinus or lung infections: Includes conditions such as bronchitis, pneumonia, or chronic sinusitis.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Abdominal pain: May be persistent or recurring.
Nausea and vomiting: Ongoing without an obvious cause.
Diarrhea or constipation: Disruption of regular bowel movements.
Bloating: Frequently accompanies chronic infections in the gastrointestinal tract, such as those related to parasites.

Musculoskeletal Symptoms

Muscle and joint pain: Can be migratory, chronic, or resemble arthritis.
Morning stiffness: Difficulty moving after waking up.
Muscle weakness: Problems with maintaining strength.

Dermatological Symptoms

Skin changes: Rashes, ulcers, erythema migrans (characteristic of Lyme disease).
Chronic itching: May indicate an allergic reaction or the presence of parasites.
Pallor or jaundice: May occur in cases of liver infection.

Cardiovascular Symptoms

Palpitations: Unexplained sensation of rapid or irregular heartbeat.
Dizziness upon changing body position: A possible sign of body weakness.
Chronic endocarditis: May occur in individuals with bacterial infections.

Immunological Symptoms

Recurrent infections: Repeated episodes of bacterial, viral, or fungal illnesses.
Enlarged lymph nodes: Especially in the neck, armpits, or groin.
Autoimmune inflammatory reactions: May occur when infection triggers excessive activation of the immune system.

Psychological Symptoms

Feelings of isolation and apathy: Associated with chronic pain or fatigue.
Sleep disturbances: Insomnia or excessive sleepiness.
Anxiety states: May be caused by prolonged physical strain on the body.