Inflammation is the body's natural protective response to infection, injury, or irritation. When something harmful or irritating affects a part of our body, there is a biological response to try to remove it and stimulate healing.
The main signs of acute inflammation are redness, swelling, heat, and pain. This is caused by increased blood flow into the affected tissues and the release of substances involved in the inflammatory process. Some of the key substances released during acute inflammation include:
Acute inflammation is the initial response, starting within seconds or minutes after injury or infection. It normally lasts for a few days. The purpose is to remove harmful stimuli such as pathogens, damaged cells, and irritants.
Chronic inflammation persists over longer periods without resolution of the problem. It can be caused by various factors like autoimmune disease, recurring acute inflammation, and prolonged exposure to toxins or pathogens. Sources of chronic inflammation include:
Chronic inflammation is linked to many modern diseases like heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease. That’s why controlling inflammation is so crucial for health.
Some key ways to reduce harmful inflammation include:
If you're struggling with chronic inflammation or inflammatory disease, the integrative medicine experts at Vitality Health Center can help. Through advanced testing, natural hormone balancing, customized nutrition plans, and evidence-based supplements, we help patients get to the root causes of inflammation. Schedule a consultation today to start feeling your best again!
In summary, inflammation is the body's protective response to harmful stimuli like infection or injury. It involves increased blood flow, release of signaling molecules, and infiltration of immune cells. Acute inflammation is temporary; chronic inflammation can contribute to many modern diseases. Lifestyle measures like diet, exercise, stress relief, and anti-inflammatory supplements can help control harmful inflammation.