Inflammation

A body’s attempt at self-protection leads to inflammation. It removes harmful stimuli, damaged cells pathogens and other irritants. It is usually the precursor to the healing stage. Thus, the biological response of inflammation is a sign that a body is trying to

repair itself.

The word inflammation is derived from the Latin word ‘inflammo’ translating to ‘I set alight, I ignite.’ It is part of the body’s immune response or the immediate healing process. It occurs when the body’s white blood cells protect it from infection caused by external factors such as bacteria and viruses. Chemicals are produced by the cells and discharged into the wound site, causing warmth

and redness.

Therefore, in most cases, for example when a joint sustains a blow, inflammation can be highly beneficial. However, in extreme situations, inflammation can be serious and be self-perpetuating.

How is Inflammation Beneficial?

The first stage of inflammation is known as irritation, which, in turn, leads to swelling and inflammation. This process is followed by suppuration or the ‘discharge of pus’. The granulation stage comes next when rounded masses of tissue are formed for healing purposes. Therefore, without inflammation, a body or its wounds

would never heal.

Difference between Acute and Chronic Inflammation

Acute inflammation onsets rapidly and becomes severe just as fast. The symptoms present themselves only for a few days, or a few weeks in some cases.

Long term or chronic inflammation can be caused by the following conditions or diseases:

   • Asthma

   • Chronic peptic ulcer

   • Tuberculosis

   • Rheumatoid arthritis

   • Chronic periodontitis

   • Crohn’s disease

   • Chronic sinusitis

   • Chronic active hepatitis

The conditions and diseases that cause acute

inflammation include:

  • Acute bronchitis

  • Infected ingrown toenails

  • Sore throat due to the flu

  • Scratches or cuts on the skin

  • Intense training and exercise

  • Acute appendicitis

  • Acute dermatitis

  • Acute tonsillitis

  • Acute infected meningitis

  • Acute sinusitis

  • Blows or hits to the body

Inflammation and Pain

Usually, inflammation is accompanied by discomfort, pain, stiffness and in some cases, even agony. Apart from acute and chronic pain, inflammation can also cause:

• Nociceptive pain

• Somatic pain

• Visceral pain

Nociceptive pain

The word ‘nociceptive’ means reacting to pain. Therefore, the cause in this kind of inflammatory pain comes from outside the nervous system – and is just a reaction.

Non- nociceptive pain comes from within the nervous system. Some receptors in the body are stimulated to

feel this pain. They sense change in vibration, temperature and chemicals of the damaged cells.

Somatic pain

Somatic pain, which is a kind of nociceptive pain, is felt in bones, joints, ligaments, muscles and the skin itself. Therefore, any musculoskeletal pain can be categorised as being somatic. This pain is more localised and touching the affected area can result

in agony.

Visceral pain

This type of pain is sensed internally – in the organs, main body cavity etc. It is usually described as a deep ache as localising it is more difficult than somatic pain. Colic and cramps are perfect examples of visceral pain.

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Sally S., Johannesburg

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