Inflammation is the body's protective response to irritation, injury, or infection. When something harmful or irritating affects a part of our body, there is a biological response to try to remove it and the process of inflammation begins.
The main signs of inflammation include:
- Pain: Prevents further injury
- Heat: Increased blood flow to the area
- Swelling: Fluid buildup due to leakier blood vessels
- Redness: Increased blood flow
- Loss of function: Allows the area to rest and heal
Inflammation occurs because the damaged cells release chemicals including histamine, bradykinin, and prostaglandins. These chemicals dilate blood vessels and make them more permeable so that more blood flows to the area. The increased blood brings more infection-fighting white blood cells to the area to attack any infection. This causes the redness and heat of inflammation. The leakier blood vessels allow proteins and fluid to enter the tissues, resulting in swelling - one of the key signs of inflammation.
The inflammatory process also stimulates pain receptors, hence why inflammation leads to pain. The pain limits the movement of that body part to allow it to rest and heal. The loss of function prevents further injury.
| Sign of Inflammation |
Purpose |
| Pain |
Prevents further injury |
| Heat |
Increased blood flow to the area |
| Swelling |
Fluid buildup due to leakier blood vessels |
| Redness |
Increased blood flow |
| Loss of function |
Allows the area to rest and heal |
Inflammation is usually a healthy response, but too much can lead to tissue damage and disease. Acute inflammation is the initial response, while chronic inflammation can be problematic as it persists over time.
Examples of conditions caused by chronic inflammation include:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Asthma
- Some cancers
That's why controlling inflammation is so important.
If you're struggling with chronic inflammation, be sure to get checked out by your doctor. They may recommend lifestyle changes, OTC meds like ibuprofen, or specialized care. One great option is Rejuvenate Clinic, which takes a holistic approach to hormone balancing and reducing inflammation naturally. Their expert clinicians can assess your health, order lab tests, and create a customized treatment plan to restore balance and optimize wellbeing.
| Treatment Option |
Description |
| Lifestyle changes |
Diet, exercise, stress reduction |
| OTC medications |
Ibuprofen, aspirin |
| Specialized care |
Rejuvenate Clinic |
Don't put up with chronic inflammation - take control of your health and feel your best! By understanding the signs and causes of inflammation, and exploring treatment options like those offered at Rejuvenate Clinic, you can reduce inflammation and improve your overall health and wellbeing.