Health
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What Are pro-Inflammatory Effects?

Sandra Koehler
Sandra Koehler

Inflammation is the body’s natural protective response which can be triggered when the body’s homeostasis or balance is altered or threatened. This automatic reaction also initiates the healing process to assist the body in returning to normal. Any type of injury, infection, illness or damage to the internal or external body can activate the inflammation process. However, a pro-inflammatory reaction causes the body’s inflammation process to be altered or exaggerated.

Common indicators of inflammation are swelling and pain with the area involved becoming red and warmer to the touch. These symptoms are directly related to the severity of the disruption of the body’s normal equilibrium. When a pro-inflammatory response is elicited, side effects can be amplified. A pro-inflammatory response may also inhibit the healing progression.

There are several medications available to aid in reducing inflammation.
There are several medications available to aid in reducing inflammation.

Pro-inflammatory cytokines are proteins that are normally produced in cells and are a product of the immune system, the body’s process to keep the body healthy and functioning at the highest level. These proteins adjust the amount of inflammation produced by communicating with other cells throughout the body and regulating the immune system. However, in some instances, there is an over-production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This causes an abnormal response from the body and can inhibit healing or perpetuate certain conditions such as allergies, asthma, inflammatory bowel or pelvic disease, degenerative conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic autoimmune diseases such as lupus.

An over-production of pro-inflammatory cytokines may cause inflammatory pelvic disease.
An over-production of pro-inflammatory cytokines may cause inflammatory pelvic disease.

Inflammation continues to be present as long as the body is injured or is battling an illness or infection. A prolonged or unusual inflammation reaction as seen when a pro-inflammatory response is present can create a chronic or long-standing issue with the symptoms associated with inflammation. This can perpetuate the pain, swelling, heat and color changes of the tissues. In turn, this prolonged bout of irritation can result in the destruction of healthy cells surrounding the area or cells that are not related to the area affected by the ailment. Continued pro-inflammation may also bring about the disruption of other body systems and cause a general failing of overall health.

Inflammatory bowel disease may develop as a result of an over-production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Inflammatory bowel disease may develop as a result of an over-production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Treatment for pro-inflammatory responses inhibiting health includes a variety of specialized medications to deter the production of cytokines and aid in producing an anti-inflammatory reaction. These medications are based on the health issue and the damaging results of the abnormal inflammation process. Other options include things like exercise and enhancing diet, or other therapies such as melatonin treatments to help regulate the abnormal production of cytokines.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • There are several medications available to aid in reducing inflammation.
      By: Arcangel
      There are several medications available to aid in reducing inflammation.
    • An over-production of pro-inflammatory cytokines may cause inflammatory pelvic disease.
      By: joshya
      An over-production of pro-inflammatory cytokines may cause inflammatory pelvic disease.
    • Inflammatory bowel disease may develop as a result of an over-production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
      By: michaeljung
      Inflammatory bowel disease may develop as a result of an over-production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
    • Treatment for pro-inflammatory responses that may be inhibiting health includes a variety of specialized medications to deter the production of cytokines and aid in producing an anti-inflammatory reaction.
      By: nyul
      Treatment for pro-inflammatory responses that may be inhibiting health includes a variety of specialized medications to deter the production of cytokines and aid in producing an anti-inflammatory reaction.
    • An over-production of pro-inflammatory cytokines may perpetuate certain conditions such as asthma.
      By: StockPhotosArt
      An over-production of pro-inflammatory cytokines may perpetuate certain conditions such as asthma.