Inflammation

What is inflammation?

Inflammation is your body's response to infection or injury. When tissues are damaged, your immune system releases chemicals that trigger a cascade of reactions in your body. This helps white blood cells fight invaders and removes damaged tissue.

There are five main signs of inflammation:

• Redness - increased blood flow turns the area red


• Swelling - fluids flood the area


• Heat - inflammation warms the site


• Pain - chemicals stimulate nerves


• Loss of function - difficult to use the area

Inflammation can be acute or chronic:

• Acute inflammation starts quickly and lasts a few days. It's the body's natural response to a sprained ankle, virus, or cut.


• Chronic inflammation lasts longer than 6 weeks and indicates an underlying issue. Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis involve ongoing inflammation.

Causes of inflammation include:

• Injuries


• Pathogens like bacteria and viruses


• Immune system disorders


• Exposure to toxins or irritants

Inflammation can be helpful initially. But too much can damage tissues and cause harmful health effects.

If you struggle with ongoing inflammation, the expert physicians at Balance Hormone Institute can help identify the root cause and create a customized treatment plan. Ask about our latest anti-inflammatory hormone therapies that calibrate your hormones for optimal wellness. Call 555-0123 today for a free consultation.

Effects of chronic inflammation:

• Heart disease


• Diabetes


• Arthritis


• Depression and anxiety


• Chronic pain

You can reduce inflammation through:

• Balanced nutrition


• Regular exercise


• Good sleep habits


• Stress management


• Smart supplementation (ask your doctor)

Monitoring inflammation is key. Have your doctor check your C-reactive protein (CRP) level, a marker of systemic inflammation. Other tests can check for vitamin deficiencies or food sensitivities that may fuel inflammation.

Does this help explain what inflammation is? Let me know if you have any other questions! Controlling inflammation is critical for preserving health and functioning.