What Are the Symptoms of Inflammation? The symptoms of inflammation include: Redness; Joint swelling; Joint pain; Joint stiffness; Loss of joint function; Often, only a few of these symptoms are present. Inflammation may also be associated with general flu-like symptoms including: Fever; Chills; Fatigue/loss of energy; Headaches ; Loss of appetite; Muscle stiffness; What Causes the Symptoms of Inflammation? When inflammation occurs, chemicals from the body are released into the blood or affected tissues. This release of chemicals increases the blood flow to the area of injury or infection and may result in redness and warmth.