Entzündungskrankheiten

Entzündungskrankheiten, also known as inflammatory diseases, represent a broad category of conditions characterized by an abnormal and prolonged inflammatory response within the body. Inflammation is a natural and vital process that helps protect the body from infection and injury. However, in inflammatory diseases, this protective mechanism becomes dysregulated, leading to chronic inflammation that can damage healthy tissues and organs.

These diseases can affect virtually any part of the body. Some common examples include autoimmune diseases, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and type 1 diabetes. Other inflammatory diseases are triggered by environmental factors or infections that persist, leading to chronic inflammation. Conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis) and psoriasis are also significant examples.

The symptoms of inflammatory diseases are diverse and depend on the specific condition and the affected body part. They can include pain, redness, swelling, heat, and loss of function in the affected area. Systemic symptoms like fever, fatigue, and weight loss can also occur. Diagnosis often involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, blood tests to detect inflammatory markers, and imaging studies.

Treatment strategies for inflammatory diseases aim to reduce inflammation, manage symptoms, and prevent further tissue damage. This can involve medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and targeted biologic therapies. Lifestyle modifications, including diet and exercise, can also play a supportive role. Managing chronic inflammatory diseases is often a lifelong process requiring ongoing medical care and monitoring.