Chronic inflammation often flies under the radar, subtly damaging the body over time. Unlike acute inflammation, which helps the body heal from injuries or infections, chronic inflammation lingers, keeping the body in a constant state of alert. This persistent state can lead to serious health conditions such as autoimmune diseases, heart disease, and diabetes. Understanding the symptoms and solutions is crucial for long-term health.
Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or infection. Acute inflammation, characterized by redness, swelling, and pain, helps heal wounds or fend off pathogens. However, chronic inflammation is a different story. It persists for months or even years, often without a clear trigger, and can lead to serious health problems.
“Chronic inflammation tends to be at a lower level, but it’s constant and persistent,” explains Lucia Stansbie, a nutritional therapist.
One of the most common signs of chronic inflammation is constant tiredness. Research shows inflammation can disrupt sleep and lead to chronic fatigue. Over time, this can weaken the immune system, making it harder to fight off new infections.
Frequent colds or infections that take a long time to heal could be a sign of chronic inflammation. According to Dr. Rachel Byng-Maddick, the immune system in this state is already overactive, leaving it ill-equipped to handle new pathogens.
“If you keep catching every bug under the sun, it may be because your body is already in a state of high alert,” says Stansbie.
