Chronic Inflammation

When we think of inflammation, the first image that comes to mind is probably a minor injury we suffered that became infected like a splinter or skinned knee.  The area around the wound got red and was tender to the touch.  It felt hot and hurt.  We knew that with proper treatment the inflammation would subside and the wound would heal.  But inflammation can also take place inside our body as well, which doesn’t leave obvious visual signs like the splinter or skinned knee.  However, being aware of the symptoms of inflammation can help you remedy the situation.

According to Medical News Today, “inflammation is the body’s attempt at self-protection; the aim being to remove harmful stimuli, including damaged cells, irritants, or pathogens – and begin the healing process.” (Feb. 2015)  Acute inflammation is the wound example above which is short in duration. Chronic inflammation can last months or even years due to the body’s failure to eliminate the cause of the problem.  What are some conditions that cause chronic inflammation?

• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Asthma
• Chronic Sinusitis
• Crohn’s Disease
• Allergies
• Diabetes

So how would you know that your body is suffering from chronic inflammation?  What are some of the symptoms?

• Persistant pain in the joints or muscles
• Worsening allergies or asthma
• High blood pressure or blood sugar
• Irritable Bowl Syndrome (IBS)
• Ulcers
• Constant fatigue or exhaustion
• Skin problems or bloodshot eyes

According to a 2012 article in SCD Lifestyle, “Inflammation becomes chronic when it stops being an acute response” (i.e. the body’s reaction to a cut or bruise) “and remains a constant low-level physiological response.”  It continues by stating, “Chronic inflammation is when your body no longer has the ability to turn off the inflammatory response and it starts damaging healthy tissue in your body.” But guess what?  Chronic inflammation can be preventable.  Yes, it’s true – preventable by YOU.  Our lifestyle and the choices we make significantly impact our body.  A hectic schedule, high pressure job, lack of sleep, high fat foods, weight gain, sugary foods and drinks, daily consumption of alcohol – are some of the choices, when made each and every day, cause our body to become chronically inflamed. Only for the simple fact that it is trying to protect YOU.

In addition to improving your lifestyle and choices,  there are other changes you can make to reduce and eliminate chronic inflammation:

• Taking Fish Oil
• Getting 8 hours of sleep
• Spinal adjustments
• Exercise
• A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean meat and fish
• Supplements like vitamin D, magnesium, and turmeric

You can stop the war your body is waging against itself.  Be aware of your choices and how they really impact you.  Allow your body to begin the healing process so you can enjoy the benefits of living without chronic inflammation.