Inflammation: diagnosis and treatment

ByDavid Mathews

If there is an inflammation, corresponding values ​​can be measured in the body. How is inflammation diagnosed and what to do if the inflammation values ​​are too high? Information on the importance of  CRP values  ​​and Co. as well as on treatment and tips for reducing inflammation values ​​can be found here.

measuring inflammation

In addition to the number of  leukocytes  , the so-called highly sensitive C-reactive protein (HSCRP or  CRP for short)  is now increasingly regarded as an important indicator of inflammation inside the body. Cardiac and vascular diseases, for example, are often preceded by years of gradual inflammation, which can be measured using the inflammatory protein CRP. In the case of inflammation, this special type of protein is mainly produced in the liver and can be measured in the blood. The value provides information about the extent of the smallest focus of inflammation (so-called micro-inflammation).

Other signs of inflammation are, for example  , increased blood sedimentation,  the increased occurrence of immunoglobulins in the blood (elevated  IgE levels  in allergic reactions) or the occurrence of  antibodies,  i.e. certain antibodies that can be directed against certain substances, bacteria, but also body cell components – that applies, for example, to rheumatic diseases.

Diagnosis and study of inflammation

If the suspicion of an inflammation is confirmed, your doctor will narrow down the search with further examination methods. In addition to a thorough examination and inspection of the throat, pharynx and ears, ultrasound, X-ray or endoscopic examinations are meaningful methods available so that the cause can usually be found quickly and appropriate therapy can be initiated.

treatment of inflammation

In most cases, an infection leads to inflammatory processes, which often take place locally at the entry points of the body. Viral infections of the ear, throat and nose region are particularly common and subside after a few days without the need for further measures or  medication  . In the case of bacterial infections, fungal or parasitic infestations, the work of the  immune system is  made easier by the medicinal administration of an antibiotic or similar.

Since different pathogens often show similar symptoms, the therapy sometimes has to be adjusted. In the case of inflammation, in which the immune system goes “crazy” and forms antibodies against the body’s own components, medication that suppresses or mitigates this reaction can help. However, these drugs often have to be taken long-term, otherwise the inflammatory reactions flare up again and again.

 

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