She Strengthens

Understanding Chronic Inflammation: Symptoms, Causes, and Effective Treatment Options

The Double-Edged Sword of Inflammation

Inflammation is a natural response of the body’s immune system, helping to heal wounds and fight off infections. However, when it becomes chronic, it can lead to a plethora of symptoms, including pain, fatigue, rashes, and joint, chest, or abdominal pain. Even depression has been linked to inflammatory problems.

The Mysterious Case of Chronic Inflammation

Until recently, the medical community only focused on inflammation in conditions like lupus or inflammatory bowel disease. However, growing evidence suggests that inflammation could be a factor in a wide variety of diseases, from cancer to diabetes to ALS. While it’s not always linked to disease, the fact that inflammation keeps showing up to the “terrible-illness party” means we should take it seriously.

Symptoms of Chronic Inflammation

Inflammation doesn’t always make itself known, and pain is far from the only symptom. It can manifest itself in more visible signs of aging, or as a serious health condition like heart disease, arthritis, or cognitive challenges. Paying attention to your body and seeking medical attention if you’re experiencing signs of chronic inflammation is crucial.

Treatment Options for Chronic Inflammation

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids like prednisone are good at relieving swelling and suppressing inflammation, but they come with unpleasant side effects, including brittle bones, reduced immune capacity, high blood sugar, bruising, and behavioral problems. Weight gain is also a counterintuitive effect.

NSAIDs

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help with inflammation, but consistent use can cause intestinal bleeding. While it’s perfectly safe to use NSAIDs on occasion, daily use could lead to real problems.

Diet

Eating a diet low in refined carbohydrates and high in fruits and vegetables, as well as avoiding saturated and trans fats, can reduce inflammation. Replacing one inflammatory food each week with something more helpful, like fresh fruits or vegetables, can make a big difference. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods like walnuts, salmon, chia seeds, and sardines, can also help ward off inflammation.

Curcumin

Curcumin, found in the spice turmeric, has been shown to greatly reduce pain in people with rheumatoid arthritis without any bad side effects. It has also been found to be a useful anti-inflammatory agent. Taking a curcumin supplement can provide a higher dose of the active ingredient.

Cannabidiol (CBD)

CBD, an extract of cannabis, contains no psychoactive properties and may greatly relieve pain and inflammation. It works by modulating the immune system at the cellular level to suppress proinflammatory cytokines and reduce inflammation. While there’s limited research due to its ties to marijuana, CBD has shown promise as a treatment for epilepsy and could be used as a replacement for NSAIDs.

Taking Control of Chronic Inflammation

While inflammation can be scary, it’s essential to pay attention to your body and seek medical attention if you’re experiencing signs of chronic inflammation. By trying out these treatment options and making lifestyle changes, you can take control of inflammation before it causes any major problems. So, go ahead and use inflammation as an excuse to eat more curry – your body will thank you!