Inflammation and Autoimmune Disease: What You Need to Know
Reviewed by: Dr. Steven Knauf, D.C.
By: Sara Butler
Your body is complex. Several systems must work together for it to perform at its very best. But sometimes, wires can get crossed, and systems can fight against one another—which may be the case with inflammation and autoimmune disease.
There is a lot to understand about the complexities of autoimmune disease. One area you can learn more about is inflammation's role in the process.
What are the common causes of inflammation?
Inflammation is your body’s natural response to injury, infection, or harmful stimuli. It acts as a protective mechanism to initiate healing. However, chronic or excessive inflammation can lead to various health issues.
Infections, whether caused by bacteria, fungi, viruses, or parasites, can cause your immune system to initiate inflammation as a defense. Acute inflammation is common with infections such as the flu or strep throat, but chronic infections—such as HIV or hepatitis—can cause long-term issues with inflammation.
Physical trauma is another trigger for inflammation. Typically, the inflammation is localized to the area impacted by the injury, and this type of inflammation is meant to protect the tissue and work to heal it.
Autoimmune disorders can also cause inflammation. Lupus, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis are just a few conditions that can cause the immune system to attack healthy tissue, resulting in chronic inflammation.
Another common cause of inflammation is chronic stress. When the body is stressed, cortisol is released, which can lead to chronic inflammation.
What are the effects of inflammation on the body?
Inflammation can have beneficial and harmful effects on the body, depending on whether it is acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). Acute inflammation helps heal injury and fight infections, while chronic inflammation can damage tissue and is associated with numerous health conditions.
Acute inflammation often results in heat and redness of the impacted area. Swelling is also observed. The person is also likely to experience pain and loss of function in the injured part of the body. These are short-lived effects; the tissue will return to normal once healed.
When inflammation impacts the whole body acutely, such as during an illness, it can cause other symptoms. Fever, muscle aches, fatigue, and loss of appetite are all systemic effects of acute inflammation.
When inflammation persists over time, it can start causing damage to healthy tissues and organs, leading to various health issues. The immune system may also weaken due to constant strain, making it less effective in dealing with other issues, such as infections. Chronic inflammation can also damage the blood vessels, which could lead to heart disease.
Chronic inflammation can also interfere with insulin signaling, increasing the risk of insulin resistance, a precursor to type 2 diabetes. This occurs because inflammation can disrupt insulin’s ability to help cells take in glucose, leading to elevated blood sugar levels.
Inflammation in the gut—such as with inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis—can lead to digestive symptoms like pain, bloating, and malabsorption, which can impair nutrient intake and overall health.
Other things that can result from inflammation in the body include:
- Autoimmune diseases
- Increased risk of cancer
- Mental health disorders
- Accelerated aging
Acute inflammation is critical to the body’s natural defense and healing mechanisms. Still, chronic inflammation can lead to widespread health issues, damage tissues, and increase the risk of many chronic diseases. Managing chronic inflammation is very important.
What is the link between inflammation and autoimmune disease?
Inflammation may be a natural response, but it’s not harmless—especially if it lasts a long time.
Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's tissues. The exact cause is not fully understood, but inflammation plays a significant role in its development and progression.
Inflammation is thought to contribute to autoimmune disease in several ways. First, it triggers a dysregulated immune response, where the immune system becomes overactive and attacks healthy tissue. This triggers a state of chronic inflammation.
Cytokines, the molecules that regulate immune system responses, can also be produced excessively. This is called a cytokine storm. It also damages healthy tissue.
Another process is autoantibody production. Autoantibodies are antibodies that attack the body’s tissues by mistake, triggering inflammation that can contribute to autoimmune disorders. Damage to the tissue can cause a wide range of symptoms but result in a condition called autoimmune disease.
Common autoimmune diseases that have been linked to chronic inflammation include:
- Type 1 diabetes
- Multiple sclerosis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Psoriasis
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- System lupus erythematosus
By understanding the role of inflammation in autoimmune disease, researchers are working to develop new treatments that target the underlying inflammatory processes.
These treatments may help reduce symptoms, slow disease progression, and improve the quality of life for people with autoimmune diseases.
How can chiropractic care help mitigate inflammation?
Chiropractic care can help mitigate inflammation in several ways and may be a great complementary therapy for those suffering from an autoimmune disease.
Reduced nerve interference: Restricted or misaligned vertebrae can pressure nerves, leading to inflammation. Chiropractic adjustments could help restore proper alignment, reducing nerve irritation and inflammation.
Enhanced nerve function: Optimal nerve function regulates the body's inflammatory response. Chiropractic care may help improve nerve function, leading to a more balanced inflammatory response.
Relaxation of muscles: Chiropractic techniques may help relax tight and tense muscles, reducing inflammation and pain.
Improved blood flow: Relaxed muscles allow for better blood flow, which could help deliver oxygen and nutrients to the affected area, promoting healing and reducing inflammation.
Dietary recommendations: Chiropractors may recommend dietary changes to reduce inflammation, such as consuming anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Exercise guidance: Regular physical activity can help reduce inflammation. Chiropractors can provide personalized exercise recommendations to suit individual needs and help you gain the positive effects of exercise.
Stress management techniques: Stress can exacerbate inflammation. Chiropractors may suggest stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing.
What lifestyle changes can you make to reduce inflammation?
You can make some lifestyle changes to fight inflammation and lead a healthier lifestyle.
Incorporate plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids (found in fatty fish, fish oil, flaxseeds, and walnuts) and olive oil into your diet.
Limit processed foods. These often contain unhealthy fats, added sugars, and excessive sodium, which can contribute to inflammation. Trans fats, fried foods, and processed meats should be avoided as much as possible.
Reduce how much sugar you eat. High sugar intake can trigger inflammation. Also, work to limit how much alcohol you drink. Excessive alcohol consumption can increase inflammation. However, stay hydrated and drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Regular exercise is vital to your health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
You cannot avoid stress, but you can learn how to deal with it effectively. To reduce stress hormones, practice relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing. Also, make sure to get enough sleep. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.
Smoking is a major contributor to inflammation. If you do smoke, talk to a trusted medical professional about strategies to help you quit.
By making these lifestyle changes, you could significantly reduce inflammation and improve your overall health. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or exercise routine.
There is a link between inflammation and autoimmune diseases. To live your healthiest life, work to reduce inflammation. Your nervous system will thank you.
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