Understanding Chronic Inflammation

Inflammation is our body’s natural reaction to an injury or infection, and it’s an important part of the healing process. In acute inflammation, symptoms last only a few days. But when it becomes a chronic condition, chronic inflammation can lead to more health troubles.

Here’s what you need to know about chronic inflammation, including tips for managing symptoms, and preventive steps you can take to reduce your chances of developing chronic inflammation.

What’s the difference between acute and chronic inflammation?

Acute inflammation usually lasts for a short time and has more noticeable symptoms. Common examples include pain, redness and swelling when you scrape your arm or twist your ankle.

When the inflammation lingers, it can turn into a chronic condition, leaving the body in a constant state of alert. Chronic inflammation can ultimately damage healthy cells and tissue. When left untreated, chronic inflammation can increase the risk of more serious conditions like heart disease, diabetes, asthma, rheumatoid arthritis and colitis.

Causes of chronic inflammation

Many factors can cause chronic inflammation, including lingering acute inflammation, auto immune disorders, long-term exposure to irritants like certain chemicals, smoking, obesity and chronic stress. Keep in mind that these factors don’t always cause chronic inflammation in everyone, and in some cases, chronic inflammation doesn’t have a clear underlying cause.

Chronic inflammation symptoms

Symptoms of chronic inflammation tend to be more subtle than acute inflammation symptoms and can range from mild to severe. Common symptoms of chronic inflammation include:

• Low energy and fatigue
• Muscle aches and joint pain
• Skin rashes like eczema or psoriasis
• Mouth sores or bleeding gums
• Sleep problems like too much or too little sleep or insomnia
• Gastrointestinal issues like bloating or abdominal pain
• Weight changes including weight gain and difficulty losing weight

How is chronic inflammation treated?

If you’re concerned about chronic inflammation or are experiencing any of the chronic inflammation symptoms above, consider scheduling an appointment with your doctor. A quick blood test at your doctor’s office can usually confirm a diagnosis of chronic inflammation.

Treatment for chronic inflammation primarily focuses on managing symptoms. This can include medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Advil or Aleve, or even steroids. Supplements that may help ease chronic inflammation symptoms include ginger, turmeric and magnesium. Be sure to consult with your doctor about which over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs or dietary supplements may be most beneficial to you.

Diet and lifestyle changes that help reduce chronic inflammation

What you eat — and don’t eat — can play a big role in managing and preventing chronic inflammation. Following a low-glycemic or anti-inflammatory diet that focuses on foods like leafy greens, fruit, nuts, olive oil, fish and high-fiber foods has been shown to be beneficial in managing chronic inflammation. People experiencing chronic inflammation should try to reduce their intake of processed meats, fried foods, refined carbohydrates and excess sugar.

In addition to a healthy diet, getting plenty of exercise and a good night’s sleep on a regular basis can help reduce chronic inflammation and the risk of developing other health issues. Taking steps to manage stress maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding tobacco and alcohol can also help reduce symptoms of chronic inflammation.

The CareCredit credit card is an easy way to pay for doctor visits, lab work, treatments, and health and wellness products to help treat and manage chronic inflammation.* Download the CareCredit Mobile App or use the Acceptance Locator to find a provider or retailer near you that accepts CareCredit.