Inflammation: You Can Have It and Not Know It

If you have ever come down with a cold or bruised a knee, chances are you’ve experienced inflammation. It's our body's acute response to injury.  But, chronic inflammation can wreak havoc on our bodies if gone unnoticed and untreated.

What Is Inflammation?

Inflammation occurs when the immune system protects the body from irritants and foreign substances. White blood cells work to defend us internally, which usually results in redness or swelling.

Acute Inflammation: 

Acute inflammation is short-lived, and is usually resolved very quickly. A good example would be the body triggering a response to a cold or papercut; the body works swiftly to heal and repair any damage that is inflicted on itself.

Chronic Inflammation: 

Chronic inflammation is an on-going form of inflammation, and is typically linked to more severe health conditions. Cancer, dementia, and diabetes are just a few conditions to which chronic inflammation can be traced. A study from Novant Presbyterian Internal Medicine shows that chronic inflammation can even lead to damaged tissue if not treated with urgency. 

What Are Some Causes?

There are a number of ways inflammation can occur, but research says these are the most common:

• An unbalanced diet full of fatty foods, excess carbs, and foods that are high in sugar content

• Drinking too much alcohol or frequent smoking

• Irregular sleep patterns

• Autoimmune disorders (Lupus, Psoriasis, Diabetes, etc.) 

• Experiencing Chronic Stress

• Untreated acute inflammation, which can turn chronic

• Scrapes or Strains

How Can You Tell If You Have It?

Symptoms of acute inflammation are easier to detect than chronic inflammation. These can include:

• Flushed Skin

• Pain/Tenderness

• Swelling

• Heat

• Fatigue

• Loss Of Function

Chronic Inflammation on the other hand, might have more painful symptoms that consist of:

• Recurring Fever

• Chest Pain

• Abdominal Pain 

• Mouth Sores

• Skin Rashes

• Stomach Pain, Cramps, Severe Bloating

• Mood Disorders, such as depression or anxiety

• Insomnia

 If you feel that you are experiencing high levels of pain, consult with a doctor.

Can You Reduce Inflammation?

Knowing how to treat your body after recognizing an issue is critical, especially when it comes to inflammation. Chronic inflammation might need to be assessed and remedied by a professional, but short-term inflammation is normally easier to manage.

Here are some ways to treat less severe cases of inflammation at home: 

• Watching what you drink- instead of grabbing a beer, opt for green or black tea. Studies show that both are great for reducing inflammation.

• Manage stress - This can achieved through meditation, journaling, or breathing exercises!

• Daily Physical Activity

• Incorporate anti-inflammatory foods into your diet - this includes greens, berries, whole grains, and healthy fats.

• Vitamins and Supplements - If you’re still not getting the nutrients you need through your diet, research from the University of Marburg shows supplements such as magnesium, turmeric, white willow bark, and vitamin B6, C, or D are great ways to strengthen the immune system and soothe any inflammation.

• Engage in hot or cold therapy for swelling. Cryotherapy is a great option.

Inflammation is a normal occurrence within the body, but can be very harmful if not given the right attention. Stay tuned for more on inflammation and its impact.