In this article, we discuss common causes of inflammation in the body, inflammation symptoms and potential treatments – keep reading!
What is Inflammation
When the body encounters an offending agent, such as toxic chemicals or pathogen organisms, or suffers an injury, it activates the immune system. The immune system then sends out inflammatory cells and cytokines, substances that stimulate more inflammatory cells. Inflammation is an essential part of the body’s healing process in which inflammatory cells travel to the site of damage and remain there for as long as it takes to heal. When inflammatory cells remain for too long, it can lead to chronic inflammation.
Types of Inflammation
There are two types of inflammation:
- Acute inflammation – short-lived
- Chronic inflammation – long-lasting
Common Causes of Inflammation in the Body
There are a number of causes of inflammation, such as:
- Pathogens – germs like bacteria, viruses and fungi
- External injuries
- Digestive problems
- Insulin resistance
- Hormone imbalance
- Physical stress
- Emotional stress
- Synthetic fibres
- Poor diet
- Food allergies
- Chemicals
- Trigger foods
- Radiation
Some lifestyle factors that can also contribute to inflammation in the body include smoking, high body mass index, excessive or lack of exercise, chronic stress and drinking alcohol.
Symptoms of Inflammation
Inflammation in the body can cause a number of symptoms, such as:
- Pain or tenderness
- Flushed skin
- Heat
- Swelling
- Abdominal pain
- Chest pain
- Joint pain
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Mouth sores
- Skin rash
Conditions Associated with Chronic Inflammation
Chronic inflammation is involved in many diseases, such as:
Inflammation Treatment
Acute inflammation does not always require treatment and usually heals in a few days. Treatment for chronic inflammation includes:
- Dietary supplements – Vitamins, minerals, fish oil and spices have anti-inflammatory properties
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) – over-the-counter drugs that reduce inflammation
- Steroid injections – Common in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis
One of the best ways to prevent and reduce inflammation in the body is to avoid foods that cause inflammation, reduce stress, introduce spices and foods that have anti-inflammatory properties, avoid a sedentary lifestyle and take walks in nature as much as possible.
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➥ DISCLAIMER: This post is not intended to replace medical treatment. The information provided is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.