tulehduksen

Tulehduksen (inflammation) is the body's protective response to tissue injury or infection. It is a dynamic process aimed at eliminating harmful stimuli and beginning repair. Inflammation can be acute or chronic. Acute inflammation occurs quickly and is characterized by redness (rubor), warmth (calor), swelling (tumor), pain (dolor), and sometimes loss of function. These signs reflect increased blood flow, vascular permeability, and immune cell recruitment. Chronic inflammation persists for weeks or months and may result from persistent infection, autoimmune conditions, or prolonged exposure to irritants, and can lead to tissue damage and scarring.

Common triggers include infections (bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites), physical or chemical injuries, autoimmune diseases (such as rheumatoid arthritis), and long-term exposure to irritants (tobacco smoke). The mechanism involves innate immune activation: local tissue injury triggers release of chemical mediators (histamine, prostaglandins, cytokines) that dilate blood vessels and attract leukocytes, especially neutrophils in the early phase and macrophages later. These cells destroy pathogens and debris and secrete substances that promote tissue repair; in some cases, excessive or misdirected inflammation can cause collateral damage.

Diagnosis relies on clinical examination and may be supported by laboratory tests (e.g., C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate) and imaging. Treatment targets the underlying cause and symptom relief. This may include rest and local care for injury, antibiotics or antivirals for infections, and anti-inflammatory drugs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroids) where appropriate. Chronic inflammatory diseases may require disease-modifying therapies.

Prevention focuses on reducing exposure to irritants and controlling infections and chronic diseases. Understanding tulehduksen emphasizes its dual role: essential for defense and potential driver of pathology if uncontrolled.