Inflammation is the body's natural response to injury and can result from physical and emotional trauma, infection and environmental toxins. Chronic inflammation depletes the body of antioxidants and triggers the immune system to produce free radicals, molecules that travel through the body and destroy healthy cells. Because stress compromises the immune system, the worldwide increase in chronic inflammation and inflammatory diseases is increasingly attributed to inadequate nutrition and poor lifestyle choices. Pain, redness, heat, swelling and loss of function can be initial signs of inflammation that if not treated appropriately can result in a chronic condition.
Gingivitis
Inflamed and tender gums are symptoms of chronic inflammation, a dental condition known as gingivitis. Gingivitis results from the accumulation of plaque--a combination of bacteria and saliva that forms along the gum line. Left untreated, a more serious form of inflammation called periodontitis occurs, which is the primary cause of tooth and bone loss in the adult population. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that regular dental care is the first defense against gingivitis.
Joint Pain
Pain is the body's way of signaling the presence of inflammation. And while pain, stiffness and swollen joints are frequently attributed to the natural effects of the aging process, chronic joint pain is also a common sign of inflammation, according to the Women to Women website. Inflammation is a healthy immune response that produces specialized hormones to repair damaged tissue and heal infection. However, when the body is not able to heal properly, the localized inflammation can develop into a chronic condition that is not easily rectified.
Heart Disease
Atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries, is the most frequent cause of heart attacks and stroke. Although cigarette smoking, high blood pressure and high blood sugar are major contributors to atherosclerosis, a growing body of evidence suggests infection and inflammation may be the underlying cause. Heart disease patients frequently have elevated levels of C-reactive protein, which is an indicator of the amount of inflammation present in the body. Studies now suggest that systemic inflammation is directly associated with the development of heart disease and is an effective predictor for recurrent heart attacks and stroke, according to the American Heart Association.
