Inflammation is the latest buzzword in health, and it happens to all of us – whether you’re aware of it or not. It’s your body’s way of fighting things that are harmful to it such as cuts, infections and toxins. It’s important for healing, repairing and generally keeping our bodies in good shape. But as the saying goes, too much of a good thing can be bad, and when there is too much inflammation in the body for too long, it can lead to serious medical issues.
Then there’s chronic inflammation, which is when your body continues to send these inflammatory cells, often when there is no longer any danger, but the body keeps anticipating it. With chronic inflammation, our body is in a constant state of alertness and this can have a negative impact that can last for months or for years.
Diagnosing inflammation Acute inflammation, with its more obvious symptoms such as chronic pain, skin rashes or swelling, is easier to diagnose than chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation symptoms are usually much more subtle, which makes them easier to overlook. People can be struggling with inflammation without even knowing they have it, but the medical profession is becoming more aware of tell-tale symptoms. I always tell patients to listen to their bodies.
Mental health issues In recent times scientists have begun investigating the role of inflammation in the brain in relation to depression and anxiety. Heart attack Inflammation can impact on the plaque in your arteries and trigger blood clots, the primary cause of heart attacks.