Inflammation - Elite Hormone Health

What is inflammation?

Inflammation is the body's natural protective response to an injury or infection. When tissues are damaged by things like trauma, toxins, or pathogens, the immune system triggers an inflammatory cascade. This involves increased blood flow to the area along with the release of cytokines, histamines, and other chemical mediators that help isolate and heal the damage.

Acute inflammation is the initial short-term swelling and redness that occurs immediately after an injury. It helps destroy invading microorganisms, clear out debris, and set the stage for repairs. Chronic inflammation persists over longer periods of time, resulting in simultaneous destruction and healing of tissues. This can lead to diseases like arthritis, heart disease, and autoimmunity.

Some key events in the inflammatory cascade include:

• Vasodilation - blood vessels at the injured site become more permeable and blood flow increases
• Leukocyte migration - white blood cells like neutrophils and macrophages are recruited to the area
• Phagocytosis - immune cells engulf and destroy pathogens and cell debris
• Tissue repairs - growth factors stimulate reconstruction of damaged tissue

You can help resolve inflammation naturally in a few ways:

• Apply ice to acute injuries to constrict blood vessels
• Take OTC pain medications like ibuprofen to reduce swelling
• Try anti-inflammatory foods like fatty fish, leafy greens, and tart cherry juice
• Consider supplements like curcumin, omega-3s, and bromelain
• Visit Elite Hormone Health to get tested and treated for chronic inflammation due to hormonal imbalances or autoimmunity

The inflammatory response is crucial for healing, but too much inflammation can also cause further damage. That's why it's important to identify and address the root causes with help from knowledgeable practitioners at places like Elite Hormone Health. Their integrative solutions can get your inflammation under control and restore health!