ADVERTISEMENT

Inflammation Symptoms

Overview

Inflammation can be a very upsetting and disconcerting phenomenon if left untreated, or if you are suffering from inflammation constantly. Inflammation usually occurs when the body's white blood cells and other agents are working to fight of bacteria or viruses. As cells compound onto their target, the site of interest may become red, painful, stiff, and feel warm to the touch. Inflammation is typically connected to skin and muscle health issues, such as tendinitis, arthritis, and muscular pains. However, inflammation can and does occur, such as when someone is suffering from irritable bowel syndrome, inflammation of the liver, or even inflammation due to breast cancer. It is critical to seek out medical attention, if inflammatory conditions persist, and if it is hindering function of daily life. Utilizing exercise, medication, and even paying special attention to your diet and lifestyle can help to get rid of inflammatory symptoms caused by disease. Sometimes surgical treatments or medications may be necessary in order to better treat inflamed joints or organs, plagued with problems.

Symptoms To Look Out For

Inflammation Symptoms can at times be signals that there may be something more sinister at work in the body. Shortness of breath coupled with leg swelling are inflammation symptoms of myocarditis of the heart. Nephritis of the kidneys causes inflammation symptoms which may lead to high blood pressure and complete renal system failure. Sufferers of irritable bowel syndrome need to be aware too, as inflammation symptoms of the bowel can trigger cramps and diarrhea. Flu like symptoms are also shared with inflammation symptoms, including: fatigue, muscle stiffness, loss of appetite, chills, fever, and headaches.

What Causes Inflammation?

When the body is being attacked by foreign substances, white blood cells kick into high gear and flood the affected area. Chemicals are released, in addition to the white blood cells, and the two agents coupled together increase blood flow, which causes inflammation at the site. Other than bacteria or viruses, inflammation can be triggered by long time arthritis, kidney disease, problems with the bronchial regions of the lungs causing asthma attacks, and muscle or bone injury. If you or someone you know plays sports, certain joint areas, such as the knees can take significant damage. The wearing of certain types of cartilage that cushions the knee, can cause further injury to the body, and trigger inflammation symptoms.

Reducing Inflammation

Inflammation reduction is as important as first identifying the symptoms and causes of inflammation. Applying a heating pad or ice to inflamed areas, is a light method of inflammation reduction at easy to reach skin, muscle, or bone sites on the body. More serious cases may benefit from physical therapy, elective surgery, or the taking of pain medication. Inflammation reduction is the first step to turning your conditions around, and making a good recovery. Avoid foods or substances that may exacerbate inflammatory symptoms. Engaging in moderate, low-impact exercise is a good way to regulate your body, and can help with inflammation reduction over time. If there is a sprain, tendinitis, or a break in the skeletal structure, applying an ice pack, and elevating the affected area helps with inflammation reduction gradually. There is no need to suffer, when there are helpful medical professionals, and common sense methods to deal with inflammation reduction. Inform yourself, seek medical attention when needed, and practice preventative care to prevent or treat existing inflammation.

Last Updated: October 30, 2015