An
anti-inflammatory substance is one which counteracts inflammation.
Inflammation is a response made by the immune
system in response to bodily injury - whether physical
trauma, infection, extremes of temperature, etc. Bloodflow
is increased to the injured area, and substances are released
to begin repair of damaged tissue. The process produces side
effects including redness, swelling, heat, pain, and sometimes
fever. This process is normal, and an outward sign that the
body's self-repair mechanisms are in force. However, if the
inflammation process occurs inappropriately (as in some immune
system disorders), or is too extreme or extended, an anti-inflammatory
drug may be used to reduce the extent of inflammation.
by Catherine E. Myers. Copyright © 2006 Memory Loss and the Brain
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