Inflammation Archive

Research has shown that men can have a higher risk for heart attacks and strokes if they suffer from certain medical conditions that might seem unrelated to heart disease. These conditions include erectile dysfunction, gum disease, peripheral artery disease, and urinary tract infections. Many factors that contribute to heart disease like inflammation and fatty deposits in the arteries are involved in these other conditions.

Keeping hands clean is a simple way to protect against from colds and flu. Proper handwashing involves using plenty of soap, lukewarm water and taking at least 20 seconds to clean the back of hands, between the fingers, and around the nails.

Some scientists believe that microbes might play a part in Alzheimer's disease development. They say it could be that certain viruses or bacteria that infect the brain aren't completely eradicated by the immune system, which leads to neuroinflammation and brain cell death. It could also be that microbes trigger the release of protein deposits-amyloid-beta plaques and tau tangles-which kill neurons, further increase neuroinflammation, and lead to more neuron death.

A 2024 study suggests that men who follow active surveillance for their low-grade prostate cancer may reduce the risk of their cancer becoming more aggressive if they maintain a healthier diet, which can help reduce inflammation.

Our understanding of how chronic inflammation can impair health has expanded dramatically in recent years, causing some people to wonder if there is a test to identify it, and if they should have it. There are several tests that can detect inflammation, and they are useful in certain situations, but not universally.

Inflammation is the body’s response to an injury, allergy, or infection, a reaction that attempts to restore the health of the affected area. But that’s only part of the story, because there are two types of inflammation, and it’s important to know the difference—and what is and isn’t true about all types.

Avoiding germs that cause respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses is especially important during the winter months, when cases are on the rise. Learn which strategies keep you safe.

Inflammation serves a vital role in the body’s defense and repair systems, but chronic inflammation can be harmful. Learn six of the most effective ways to ward off unhealthy inflammation.

Long COVID is the continuation or development of new symptoms three months after the initial infection from SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID) without any other explanation. An estimated 6% to 11% of adults who have had COVID have long COVID. Researchers continue to learn about how it affects people and its possible long-term risks. The best protection against long COVID is avoiding COVID infection by getting vaccinated and wearing a mask in crowded areas.