When you take a fall and your knee swells up, that’s acute inflammation at work, helping to heal the injury. But chronic inflammation is a more serious issue that can lead to severe consequences.
Chronic inflammation, when it persists in the body or affects healthy tissue, can be harmful. It contributes to further injuries and is a factor in many diseases. Experts believe that chronic inflammation is involved in more than half of global deaths and may be the reason for feelings of lethargy, pain, and overall poor health.
Chronic inflammation is linked to a range of diseases, including autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, GI disorders, lung diseases, mental health issues, metabolic ailments, neurodegenerative problems, and certain cancers.
A Body on Fire
Dr. Monica Aggarwal, a cardiologist and co-author of “Body on Fire,” emphasizes the importance of recognizing and reversing chronic inflammation. She personally experienced the debilitating effects of rheumatoid arthritis due to chronic inflammation and transformed her health through anti-inflammatory foods and healthy lifestyle changes.
Dr. Aggarwal advises patients to focus on reducing stress, getting enough sleep, exercising, and adopting an anti-inflammatory diet to combat chronic inflammation.
Inflammation Triggers
Identifying personal triggers, such as a high-stress lifestyle, is crucial in managing inflammation. Lifestyle changes, including diet adjustments and stress reduction, play a key role in reducing inflammation levels.
Dr. Jyothi Rao emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to inflammation reduction, targeting not only diet but also sleep and stress management. Lifestyle interventions can significantly impact overall health.
Action Plan
Experts recommend avoiding pro-inflammatory foods, such as red meat and fried foods, to reduce inflammation. Mayo Clinic provides valuable insights on the impact of inflammation and strategies to address it.
Your Turn
If you struggle with chronic inflammation, how do you manage it? Share your tips in the comments!
Kathleen Doheny is an independent journalist based in Los Angeles, specializing in health and lifestyle topics. Aside from Senior Planet, she contributes to WebMD, Medscape, and other platforms. Kathleen enjoys outdoor activities like hiking and jogging and is a proud grandmother who loves to stay active.
Doheny photo: Shaun Newton
This article provided by Senior Planet and Older Adults Technology Services is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical concerns. In case of a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.
