5. Painful Swelling: The Body’s Distress Call
One of the hallmark symptoms, and often less discussed than the rashes, is the painful swelling seen in different parts of the body. Often described as edema, this swelling can particularly be noted in the face and limbs, signaling the body’s intense reaction to a perceived threat.
The swelling, much like other symptoms, is a result of the body’s immune response going awry. As the immune system tries to defend against what it perceives as foreign invaders (often the medications or infections triggering SJS), it leads to inflammation in various body parts.
Beyond the evident physical discomfort, the swelling can pose functional challenges. Swelling in the limbs may restrict movement, while facial swelling can impact basic activities like eating or speaking. In extreme cases, this inflammation can also affect internal organs, heightening the severity of SJS.(5)
