Inflammation

The word inflammation comes from the Latin “inflammo”, meaning “I set alight, I ignite”.

Inflammation is the body’s attempt at self-protection; the aim being to remove harmful stimuli, including damaged cells, irritants, or pathogens – and begin the healing process.
It is a localized physical condition in which part of the body becomes reddened, swollen, hot, and often painful, especially as a reaction to injury or infection. Inflammation does not mean infection, even when an infection causes it. Infection is caused by a bacteria, virus or fungus, while inflammation is the body’s response to it.

When something harmful or irritating affects a part of our body, there is a biological response to try to remove it, the signs and symptoms of inflammation, specifically acute inflammation, show that the body is trying to heal itself.