(Chronic inflammation) Is back pain also due to chronic inflammation??

Inflammation is a protective response that occurs in the body when tissue is damaged. It can be divided into acute and chronic types, but chronic inflammation is problematic. Acute inflammation can easily manifest as pain and swelling, indicating that the body's immune system has dispatched white blood cells to the site of infection or injury to heal.

 

Chronic inflammation is problematic because it often goes unnoticed for long periods, only to surface as the condition worsens. Chronic inflammation increases the risk of various diseases, including arthritis, stroke, cancer, obesity, Alzheimer's disease, heart disease, and depression.

 

As we age, our immune systems weaken, making us more susceptible to chronic inflammation. Drawing on data from WebMD, a US health and medical media outlet, we've compiled a list of symptoms that can indicate chronic inflammation and foods that can help reduce it.

|Signs of Chronic Inflammation|

 

extreme fatigue

 

Chronic fatigue is a classic sign of long-term inflammation and a common symptom of inflammatory diseases such as fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis. If you experience sudden energy loss, it could be a sign of one of these conditions, so it's best to see a doctor.

 

back pain

 

In ankylosing spondylitis, chronic inflammation usually attacks the spine. It can also occasionally affect the hips, neck, knees, and chest. Lower back pain and stiffness can be particularly noticeable in the morning, and in severe cases, it can even lead to inability to move. If symptoms appear, seek medical attention. Early treatment can help manage the condition.

 

Decrease in memory and thinking ability

 

Signs of inflammation in the body can affect memory and thinking skills. Research continues into this connection. Early evidence suggests that inflammation may contribute to Alzheimer's disease and other conditions that cause dementia, particularly in older adults. A healthy diet may help alleviate this.

 

Dizziness, loss of balance

 

Chronic inflammatory diseases cause the body to overreact, or in some cases, even attack itself. For example, in multiple sclerosis, the body's immune system attacks the nerve membranes. This makes it difficult for nerve signals to pass through, leading to dizziness and loss of balance when walking.

 

muscle weakness

 

Sometimes, the immune system mistakenly attacks its own muscles, causing inflammation. This begins to break down muscle fibers and weaken them. Symptoms usually develop slowly, most commonly affecting the trunk, shoulders, and hips. In some cases, simple tasks like walking, bathing, and swallowing become difficult.

 

diarrhea

 

The two most common types of inflammatory bowel disease are ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. In both cases, the immune system overreacts, causing inflammation in the colon and small intestine. One of the symptoms that can occur is diarrhea. Other symptoms include nausea, joint pain, fever, and skin rashes.

xerophthalmia

 

It's a common symptom of inflammation. Sjögren's syndrome affects the salivary and tear glands. You may experience a gritty, burning sensation in your eyes, swelling in your salivary glands, and a dry nose and throat. You can seek medical attention to receive medication to relieve symptoms and prevent serious complications, such as vision loss or dental problems.

 

 

|Foods that reduce chronic inflammation|

 

garlic

Studies have shown that garlic inhibits the production of substances that cause inflammation. Heating garlic, in particular, enhances its anti-inflammatory effects.

 

Cruciferous vegetables such as kale and broccoli

Cruciferous vegetables like kale, broccoli, and cauliflower are rich in the antioxidant sulforaphane, which has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Kale is particularly rich in vitamin K, which has strong anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, one cup of kale contains 10% of the recommended daily value of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids.

 

Omega-3 rich fish such as mackerel, sardines, anchovies, and salmon

Blue-colored fish like mackerel, sardines, and salmon are rich in two powerful omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA. These fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and may reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease, asthma, and autoimmune diseases.

 

almond

Like fish, they are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Almonds are also rich in vitamin E, which lubricates joints and protects the body from inflammatory precursors.

 

tomato

Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Cooking enhances the anti-inflammatory properties of tomatoes, as heat releases more lycopene. Lycopene not only reduces inflammation but also has cancer-preventing effects.

 

tofu

Soy foods like tofu contain isoflavones and omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation levels in the body.

Mushrooms contain compounds that reduce inflammation. Antioxidants, including phenols, found in mushrooms have anti-inflammatory effects. One study found that Reishi mushrooms reduced inflammation associated with obesity.

Shiitake mushrooms also contain compounds that boost the body's immune response and help fight infections. Their antibacterial properties have also led to their use in cancer treatment. The polysaccharides in shiitake mushrooms reduce immune damage caused by chemotherapy and radiation.

 

pumpkin

It contains carotenoids, antioxidants that act like rust inhibitors in the body. These compounds absorb free radicals that can damage cells and DNA, contributing to the development of disease. Pumpkin also contains beta-carotene, which is effective in treating inflammation in the skin and lungs.

 

Berries such as strawberries and blueberries

Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are rich in antioxidants called anthocyanins. These compounds reduce inflammation, boost immunity, and lower the risk of heart disease. Studies have shown that drinking strawberry juice with a Western breakfast, known to increase inflammation, can counteract the negative effects of a Western diet.

 

bit

Beets have been shown to lower blood pressure and increase stamina. They also have anti-inflammatory properties. Beets contain an amino acid called betaine, which reduces the risk of inflammation.

 

avocado

Avocados are rich in potassium, magnesium, fiber, and monounsaturated fatty acids. In particular, the carotenoids and tocopherols found in avocados help prevent inflammation and reduce the risk of cancer.

 

green tea

Green tea is rich in epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a type of polyphenol that reduces inflammation and prevents cell damage.

 

peppers, green peppers

Chili peppers and bell peppers are rich in antioxidants, including quercetin, sinapic acid, and ferulic acid. These compounds have powerful anti-inflammatory properties.

 

curcuma

Turmeric, the main ingredient in curry, contains a powerful anti-inflammatory compound called curcumin. Eating turmeric with black pepper significantly enhances the absorption of curcumin.

 

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I think it's almost 50% inflammation.

Extreme fatigue, back pain (started around Chuseok)

Dry eye (I live with it) I got a prescription for artificial tears today too.

 

however,

Anti-inflammatory foods

These are all things I eat often...

What on earth could be the problem?

 

Is it something that needs to be done systematically once?