Inflammation is a reaction that occurs in every person and causes the immune system to defend the body against various diseases or injuries. Inflammation is the basis of many healing processes in the body.
In the most general sense, inflammation is the body's immune system's response to an irritant. Redness, heat, swelling, pain, etc. are signs of acute inflammation. There are many factors that can cause inflammation. The most common of these; bacteria, viruses, fungi, external injuries (scratches), injuries caused by foreign objects, chemicals or radiation.
The structure of inflammation is divided into two categories: acute and chronic. Acute inflammation usually characterizes a significant inflammatory state that occurs in a short period of time. In acute inflammation, symptoms develop rapidly in less than two weeks. In cases such as new-onset discomfort and injury, its occurrence is described as acute inflammation.
Chronic inflammation is a significant inflammatory condition that develops slowly and usually lasts more than 6 weeks. This condition, which is not related to a specific injury, may persist even if the underlying cause is cured. Long-term stress situations and autoimmune disorders are among the causes of chronic inflammation.
Inflammation is defined as a tissue response caused by harmful chemicals, environmental factors, trauma, and infectious diseases. This tissue response is an important process for healing wounds and controlling microbial diseases.
What are the symptoms of inflammation?
Inflammation occurring in a certain part of the body has 5 structural signs. Pain, heat, redness, swelling and loss of functions in this part are 5 characteristics of inflammation. Other specific symptoms may vary depending on where the condition is or a different cause.
Long-term inflammation is classified as chronic inflammation. Unlike acute inflammation, the symptoms of chronic inflammation progress without being obvious and can be confused with the symptoms of various diseases. Symptoms such as fatigue, fever, mouth sores, scaly skin, abdominal pain, and chest pain are among the signs of chronic inflammation. Symptoms can be moderate or severe, usually developing over months to years. Chronic inflammation can occur after a variety of medical conditions;
• Absence of the body's immune response to an infectious disease that develops with acute inflammation
• In the presence of an unknown substance that cannot be blocked by protective tissues
• In the process of autoimmune disorders
• In diseases caused by disturbances in cellular functions related to the regulation of inflammation
Symptoms that may occur during chronic inflammation are the following;
Body aches
Chronic fatigue
Sleep disorders
Depression, anxiety, various mood disorders
Digestive system problems such as constipation, diarrhea, reflux
Imbalance of weight gain and loss
Constantly catching infectious diseases
The relationship of inflammation with various diseases
Inflammation plays a key role in many diseases. Chronic inflammatory diseases cause more than half of all deaths worldwide.
These diseases can be listed as follows:
Autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis
Cardiovascular diseases such as high blood pressure and heart disease
Gastrointestinal diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease
Lung diseases such as asthma
Mental illnesses such as depression
Metabolic diseases such as Type 2 diabetes
Neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease
Certain types of cancer, such as colon cancer
How is inflammation treated?
Research in recent years has shown that there is a link between an individual's lifestyle and the level of inflammation. These results are correct because people with high CRP levels are generally physically inactive, have high blood sugar levels, and lack healthy eating habits. These individuals may also be prone to various health problems such as hypertension and overweight. Your eating habits can be changed with a suitable diet. In addition, a light exercise plan can be implemented.
Differences in lifestyle and healthy eating have a positive effect on the course of chronic inflammation. Losing weight is a healthy step to reduce inflammation. Avoiding high-fat foods, avoiding foods high in saturated fat, eating plenty of vegetables and fruits, and eating a balanced diet are among the dietary changes that can be made to reduce the effects of inflammation.
Although inflammation is considered a normal immune function of the body, chronicity causes damage to the affected part. If a certain sign or finding is observed in the body during this process, it is necessary to seek support from a specialist.
