Can inflammation affect internal organs?
Yes. Inflammation can affect organs as part of an autoimmune disorder. The types of symptoms depend on which organs are affected. For example: <> • Inflammation of the heart (myocarditis) may cause shortness of breath or fluid retention. • Inflammation of the small tubes that transport air to the lungs may cause an asthma attack. • Inflammation of the kidneys (nephritis) may cause high blood pressure or kidney failure. • Inflammation of the large intestine (colitis) may cause cramps and diarrhea. Pain may not be a primary symptom of an inflammatory disease, since many organs do not have many pain-sensitive nerves. Treatment of organ inflammation is directed at the cause of inflammation whenever possible.
