Chronic inflammation is a prolonged and persistent inflammatory response in the body that lasts for months or years. Unlike acute inflammation, which is a normal and healthy response to injury or infection, chronic inflammation can occur even when there is no clear cause. It can affect various tissues and organs and is often linked to lifestyle factors and underlying health conditions.
Chronic inflammation matters because it can contribute to a range of serious health issues, including joint pain, heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. When inflammation lingers, it can damage healthy cells and tissues, leading to ongoing health problems. Understanding chronic inflammation is important to help identify potential health risks and manage them effectively.
In the body, inflammation is a natural defense mechanism aimed at protecting against infections and healing injuries. When the body detects harmful stimuli, such as pathogens or damaged cells, it triggers an inflammatory response to eliminate the threat and start the healing process. However, when this response does not resolve, it can turn into chronic inflammation, causing more harm than good.
It is important to recognize the signs of chronic inflammation, as early detection can help prevent further health complications. While inflammation is a natural part of the immune response, chronic inflammation indicates an imbalance that may require attention from healthcare professionals.