Inflammation is often described as harmful, but it is actually one of the body’s essential protective responses. When the immune system detects infection, injury, or damaged tissue, inflammation helps bring immune cells to the affected area, remove unwanted material, and begin the repair process. The problem is not inflammation itself. The problem begins when the response continues longer than necessary. Acute and Chronic Inflammation Acute inflammation is a short-term response to injury or infection. It activates quickly, supports defense and repair, and should gradually settle once the immediate problem has been addressed. Chronic inflammation occurs when inflammatory activity remains present over a prolonged period. Unlike acute inflammation, it may not…