Inflammation is a complex biological response initiated by the immune system to protect the body against infection, injury, toxins, allergens and other perceived threats. When the immune system detects something harmful, it releases chemical messengers that recruit white blood cells to the affected area. These cells help eliminate pathogens, remove damaged tissue, and initiate the repair process.

There are two primary types of inflammation: acute and chronic. While acute inflammation is typically short-lived and protective, chronic inflammation may persist for extended periods and contribute to the development of various health conditions.

Acute vs Chronic Inflammation

Acute Inflammation: Acute inflammation is an immediate, short-term response to injury or infection. It presents with classic symptoms such as redness, swelling, heat, and pain – responses designed to promote healing. Common examples include a sore throat, or a sprained ankle. In most cases, the body resolves the inflammation once the underlying issue is addressed.

Chronic Inflammation: Chronic inflammation, by contrast, is prolonged and often occurs when the immune system continues to respond to a persistent internal trigger. This may include unresolved infections, environmental toxins, chronic stress, poor dietary choices, or autoimmune activity. Over time, chronic inflammation may gradually contribute to tissue damage and is implicated in a wide range of health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and hormonal imbalances.

What Contributes to Chronic Inflammation?

Several modifiable lifestyle factors are known to contribute to sustained, low-grade inflammation. These include:

• A diet high in ultra-processed foods, refined carbohydrates, and added sugars
• Sedentary behaviour
• Ongoing psychological stress
• Exposure to environmental toxins or hormone-disrupting chemicals
• Imbalances in the gut microbiome

The role of gut health in chronic inflammation is particularly significant. The gut houses over 70% of the immune system, and an imbalanced microbiome can impair intestinal barrier function – a phenomenon often referred to as intestinal permeability or “leaky gut”. This condition may allow undigested food particles and microbial toxins to enter the bloodstream, triggering an immune response and sustaining systemic inflammation. Symptoms may extend beyond the digestive tract, potentially manifesting as brain fog, fatigue, skin issues, and food intolerances.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Chronic Inflammation             

Because chronic inflammation often develops slowly and without obvious signs, it can go unrecognised for months or even years. Individuals may experience a variety of non-specific symptoms, including:

• Persistent joint or muscle pain
• Gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, cramping, or acid reflux
• Unexplained weight gain or weight loss
• Puffiness, water retention, or a general feeling of being “inflamed”
• Low mood, anxiety, or irritability
• Chronic fatigue or poor sleep quality
• Increased susceptibility to infections

Medical Testing for Chronic Inflammation

If you are experiencing ongoing symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, digestive discomfort, or frequent infections, it may be worth investigating whether chronic inflammation is a contributing factor. Several blood tests can help assess level of systemic inflammation;

Common Diagnostic Tests for Inflammation:

• C-reactive Protein (CRP):
  CRP is a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation. Elevated CRP levels in the blood may indicate the presence of acute or chronic inflammation.
• Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR):
  This test measures how quickly red blood cells settle at the bottom of a test tube. A faster-than-normal rate may suggest the presence of inflammation in the body.
• Plasma Viscosity (PV):
  Plasma viscosity assesses the thickness of the blood. Increased viscosity may be linked to ongoing inflammatory processes.

These markers are not diagnostic of specific conditions on their own but can be useful as part of a broader clinical picture when investigating persistent symptoms or guiding treatment strategies.

Why Chronic Inflammation Matters

Chronic inflammation is not just a general discomfort or nuisance – it is now recognised as a core factor in the development and progression of many serious health conditions. According to research from Harvard Medical School, chronic inflammation plays a central role in some of the most prevalent and challenging diseases of our time, including:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Cardiovascular disease
• Type 2 diabetes
• Cancer
• Asthma
• Neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease

This underscores the importance of addressing inflammation proactively, before it leads to more serious or irreversible damage.

Long-Term Health

Although inflammation is a vital protective response, persistent inflammation may underlie a wide range of chronic health concerns. Understanding and addressing its root causes, especially through personalised dietary and lifestyle interventions, can play a pivotal role in long-term wellness.