Systemic Inflammation
We know about inflammation if we cut ourselves or get a sore throat: there is
pain, swelling, redness and heat. But inflammation can also affect internal
parts of the body - the organs and vasculature (blood vessels) - and you may
know nothing about it. When inflammation is widespread in the body it is known
as systemic inflammation. Poor diet is also a causal factor in systemic
inflammation.
Systemic inflammation is now seen as a major causal factor in
many serious and chronic illnesses, such as heart disease and cancer. Research
is linking inflammation to most brain illnesses, including Alzheimer's,
depression, Autism, ADHD and Schizophrenia.
Inflammation and the Immune System
Inflammation is mediated by the immune system - that is, it is the result of
activity of immune cells. Learn more about the
immune system. That means it's normally part of an adaptive response
designed to fight off threats from infections, allergens and toxins. However,
problems in the immune system can lead to inappropriate inflammation.