The ‘good’ and the ‘bad’ type of inflammation

Saptaparna Dasgupta, Bennett University

Inflammation is a common condition that occurs with swelling and stiffness of the joints. It is the responsive mechanism of how the body responds in order to protect itself from injury, infection, or any illness. Thus, a certain amount of inflammation stands to be necessary for the proper functioning of the responding mechanism of the body against the invaders. However, chronic inflammation stands to be of greater risk than acute inflammation and is responsible for several health issues. The health issues related to chronic inflammation include diabetes, heart attack, stroke, etc. Therefore, experts mention it as a crucial factor for one to be able to distinguish between the ‘good’ and the ‘bad’ type of inflammation. 

The ‘good’ and the ‘bad’ type:

‘Good’ inflammation is referred to the condition wherein the body performs its job in keeping away and protecting itself from the invading agents. Whereas ‘bad’ inflammation is when this condition is associated with difficulties in the body. It was reported by Dr. Shikha Mahajan, holistic nutritionist and founder of Diet Podium that inflammation should not be a matter of great concern whenever it occurs as it is a healing mechanism to keep our body healthy and safe. 

Acute inflammation:

The good type is known as acute inflammation, being more common and the body’s natural defense against infection-causing agents. The white blood cells are termed as the “first responders” to infections and injury and act by the release of chemicals that potentially kill the germs. In the acute condition, the body responds via redness, swelling, and causing pain around the joints in case of injury. 

Chronic inflammation:

The bad type of inflammation is known as chronic inflammation, which lasts for a duration of 6 weeks on average, as reported by Dr. Manjeeta Nath Das. This condition occurs as a response to several toxins such as cigarette smoke or excessive fat cells. Dr. Niles Nolkha, rheumatologist stated that the inflammation within the arteries causes atherosclerosis which occurs due to the accumulation of fatty and cholesterol-rich plaque within the arteries. These plaques keep the blood in the arteries from flowing normally and are considered abnormal or foreign bodies that hamper normal body functioning. These plaques are further responsible for forming blood clots that block the flow of blood in the body. Further, the blood clots and blocked blood flow lead to heart attacks and strokes. 

Conclusion:

It thus is important for us to know the difference between acute and chronic inflammation as inflammation is not always harmful. This means differentiating between the ‘good’ and the ‘bad’ type of inflammation is necessary. However, one cannot be relaxed and misinterpret chronic inflammation as acute inflammation. As chronic inflammation is related to various other serious conditions such as cancer, heart diseases, diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s disease. Diet forms a crucial habit in the regulation of the level of blood sugar and gaining of weight which is responsible for chronic inflammation. 

Also read: CGRP: A special peptide and its role in Migraine Attacks

References:

1. ‘Important to understand when inflammation is helping the body, and when it is causing difficulties’. (2021, August 3). The Indian Express. https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/health/obesity-heart-health-inflammation-body-symptoms-treatment-7422745/
2. The good, the bad and the ugly of inflammation. (2015, February 10). Vanderbilt Medicine. https://medschool.vanderbilt.edu/vanderbilt-medicine/the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly-of-inflammation/

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Author info:

Saptaparna Dasgupta, currently a B. Tech 3^rd year student, pursuing Biotechnology, is a diligent student and determined in terms of her career goals. Being a budding biotechnologist, she is open to all research fields of her course and passionate about knowledge. She is focused and constantly tries to improve her writing skills. Saptaparna is also a project enthusiast and is fond of gaining hands-on experience in laboratories. She believes that all hard work and efforts pays off eventually and follows this as the motto of her life.