Like cops patrolling a community, our immune cells guard the immune system. These tiny cells work hard to notify the system of an injury or threat to the body. This message is sent by a complicated system of chemical signals, which then causes changes in the tissue–inflammation. Inflammation starts when an immune cell recognizes a molecule associated with damage, stress, or infection. It begins with a broad and non-specific innate immune response. Then, it localizes and restricts the threat, allowing immune cells to enter.
Without it, our body wouldn’t be able to prevent or fight illness. Cuts wouldn’t heal, burns would go undetected, and sprains would be left untouched.
Inflammation and the immune system are a dynamic duo. When in balance, they conquer and defeat all the bad guys. When one overshadows the other, such as the case with chronic inflammation, the duo suffers, and so does health.