8. Joint Pain: Microscopic Colitis’s Reach Beyond the Gut
Joint pain might seem like an unlikely symptom in a condition that primarily affects the colon. Yet, in the intricate tapestry of human health, Microscopic Colitis stretches its influence beyond the gut, often causing discomfort in the joints. It’s a testament to how interconnected our body systems are.
This musculoskeletal manifestation is not universal but is significant enough to warrant attention. The pain can be migratory, moving between joints and varying in intensity. One day, it might be a mild stiffness in the knees, and the next, a sharper pain in the wrists or elbows.
The underlying cause of this joint discomfort is the body’s immune response. Microscopic Colitis, at its core, is an inflammatory condition. This inflammation isn’t always restricted to the colon. At times, inflammatory proteins can circulate and settle in the joints, leading to pain and discomfort. (8)
