Understanding Chronic Inflammation: Observing the Skin for Signs and Symptoms

[Report by Wu Wenzhe]When it comes to chronic inflammation, it can be said to be the greatest enemy of modern people’s health, but many people may not know that in fact, the severity of chronic inflammation can be observed from the skin, and even the quality of immunity can be judged. Because it is full of microvessels and is the first line of defense against viruses, Korean family medical doctor Park Minxiu (박민수, transliteration) suggests that people can pay attention to their skin conditions in daily life. If symptoms such as edema and rash often occur, go Special attention should be paid.

The skin is the body’s first line of defense and can help observe the state of blood vessels

“Inflammation can be divided into acute inflammation and chronic inflammation.” Dr. Park explained that acute inflammation usually refers to the body’s response to external shocks, triggering defense and protection, while chronic inflammation originates from the inside, and the damage to the human body is gradual The formula: “When the inflammatory response does not disappear, but the chronicity continues in the body, it will cause the blood vessels, immunity and hormonal balance to be affected.” In addition, because the chronic inflammation is eliminated, every minute and every second will affect the The impact on the body will also lead to the burden of immune cells, and even cause immunity to decline.

So what does chronic inflammation have to do with the skin? In addition to the skin itself being the first line of defense against external infections, Dr. Park said that the skin has a large number of microvessels: “One of the ways to detect chronic inflammation is a blood test, but not everyone has the means to go to the hospital for examination at any time, so pay attention Skin condition will be a relatively practical and important method.”

Underarm swelling and varicose veins are signs of chronic inflammation

Do you often experience swelling in your armpits or crotch? These could be signs of chronic inflammation. “Some people feel swelling when they touch the ears or under the chin, which is usually chronic inflammation, leading to swollen lymph nodes.” Dr. Park explained that swelling in the armpits or crotch also means that chronic inflammation has intensified and caused lymphatic circulation. burden.

Also, frequent swelling under the eyes or in the legs is also a possible sign of chronic inflammation.

“Acne appears on the face because the inflammatory reaction affects the secretion of hormones. Some people develop rashes. It may be that the balance of microorganisms in the intestinal tract has been disrupted, leading to an inflammatory reaction in the blood vessels.”

Dr. Park added that eczema and psoriasis are not good news: “If you have itchy dermatitis, you must also suspect whether it is chronic inflammation. Would recommend steroid ointment, or antihistamines to suppress it.”

In addition, persistent chronic inflammation will lead to a decrease in skin collagen, thinning of the skin, and a decrease in water retention capacity, which in turn makes the skin more prone to dryness.

Even the common varicose veins of the lower extremities may actually be caused by chronic inflammation, which leads to poor blood circulation and the inability to discharge old waste substances smoothly; and before the appearance of varicose veins, pressure and pain may also appear first. “Some people have cold hands and feet, but they feel a burning sensation in the body.” Dr. Park explained that this is because chronic inflammation leads to poor blood circulation, especially the circulation between the cardiovascular system and the surface skin, which makes the body temperature and the surface temperature. There is a gap: “This symptom is especially likely to appear in menopausal women.”

Stay away from chronic inflammation and doctors recommend the “333 rule”

If you want to get rid of the threat of chronic inflammation, Dr. Park suggests that you can abide by the “333 rule”, that is, pay attention to the ratio of the 3 major nutrients, develop the habit of exercising 3 times a week, and invest at least 3 minutes a day in relaxation practice.

1. Adjust the ratio of the three major nutrients

As we grow older, the ratio of the three major nutrients should be as close to “4:4:2” as possible. At the same time, carbohydrates should also choose oatmeal, brown rice, whole wheat, etc.; fat should be mainly Omega3 and unsaturated fatty acids. At the same time, the intake of colorful fruits and vegetables and sufficient water are also the key points that must be paid attention to.

2. Exercise 3 times a week, 30 minutes each time

Develop the habit of “exercising at least 3 times a week, lasting at least 30 minutes each time and must reach the level of sweating”, so as to help excrete inflammatory substances from the body. Studies have also pointed out that the body will secrete anti-inflammatory hormones during exercise, which can help improve chronic inflammation.

3. Invest 3 minutes a day in 3 things

Dr. Park explained that by practicing “inhale through the nose and exhale through the mouth” for 3 minutes a day, the body can more effectively filter viruses and aerosols that cause inflammation; Stress; and “eating slowly for 3 minutes” can reduce the burden on the stomach by 50%.

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