Inflammation is your body's defense against injury and infection. The five cardinal signs of inflammation are pain, heat, redness, swelling, and loss of function. However, some people with inflammation do not have any symptoms. This article describes two types of inflammation—acute and chronic—and details the five signs. It also discusses other signs and complications of inflammation and treatment for acute and chronic inflammation. Types of Inflammation Inflammation can either happen in the short term (acute) or be a long-term response (chronic). Acute Inflammation Acute inflammation is a healthy and necessary function that helps the body attack bacteria and other foreign substances in the body. Once the body has healed, the inflammation gets better. Acute inflammation can cause heat or warmth in the affected area.For example, an injured part of your body might feel warm to the touch.Sometimes, the heat is caused by a fever. A few examples of common conditions that can cause acute inf...
