Inflammation is the body's natural response to injury or infection. When tissues in the body are injured by bacteria, trauma, toxins, heat, or any other cause, the immune system triggers an inflammatory response. This response is an essential part of the healing process. The main signs of inflammation include:
- Redness - Increased blood flow causes reddening of the skin around the injured or infected area. This brings immune cells and healing factors to the site of injury.
- Swelling - Damaged cells and leaking blood vessels allow fluid to escape into nearby tissues, causing swelling. This helps isolate the area from further contamination.
- Heat - More blood flow to the area raises local temperature around the inflamed tissue. This helps fight infection.
- Pain - Chemicals released by damaged cells stimulate nerve endings, causing pain signals. Pain causes you to avoid using the injured area while it heals.
- Acute inflammation starts rapidly and becomes severe within minutes or hours. Its main role is to eliminate injurious agents and prepare for tissue repair.
- Chronic inflammation can last for several weeks or months, causing new damage. It may eventually become self-perpetuating after the original cause has resolved.
- Arthritis
- Asthma
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Psoriasis
- Celiac disease
- Lupus
- Vasculitis
- Infection by certain bacteria, viruses, or fungi
- Exposure to irritants or toxins
- Autoimmunity
- Poor diet and obesity
- Stress
- Genetic factors
- Treat underlying infections or causes
- Consume more omega-3 fatty acids
- Increase antioxidants like vitamins C and E
- Manage stress levels with yoga, meditation, etc.
- Lose excess weight if obese
- Take targeted anti-inflammatory medications