Inflammation –– that often-demonized culprit behind so many health woes –– is more nuanced than we often realize. As an allergist, immunologist, and fellow autoimmune warrior (I have Sjogren’s!), I find myself constantly explaining the double-edged sword of inflammation – how it can be both our body’s protector and a source of trouble.

Remember that angry, red, swollen cut? That’s inflammation in action! It’s your body’s brilliant defense system leaping in to heal and protect. But just like that unwanted house guest who overstays their welcome, chronic or excessive inflammation can wreak havoc.

Let’s unpack this complicated character and learn how to support a healthy inflammatory response.

Inflammation 101: Your Body’s Rapid Response Team

Inflammation is part of your innate immune system. It’s that immediate, non-specific reaction to injury or infection. Think of it as your body’s first responders, rushing to the scene when there’s trouble:

• Neutrophils (The EMTs): These cells are first on the scene, clearing debris and gobbling up bacteria (imagine Pac-Man!).

• Mast Cells & Nerve Endings (The Alarm System): They sound the alert, letting other immune cells know there’s a problem!

• Macrophages (The Clean-Up Crew): These cells engulf and remove bacteria, damaged cells, and other debris – they’re both angels and assassins!

• Dendritic Cells (The Messengers): They gather intel from the “crime scene” and present it to other immune cells (in the lymph nodes) to coordinate a more targeted, adaptive immune response – that’s the part that remembers past invaders and helps develop long-lasting immunity.

The Good, the Bad, and the Inflamed: When Inflammation Goes Wrong

The Good: In controlled amounts, inflammation is essential for healing. That cut that heals, those sore muscles after a workout –– that's inflammation doing its job!

The Bad (Chronic Inflammation): This low-grade, persistent inflammation is the sneaky culprit fueling many chronic diseases –– heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, even autoimmune diseases like Sjogren's and allergies!

The Ugly (Excessive Inflammation): Like a runaway train, this out-of-control inflammation can lead to life-threatening conditions like septic shock or cytokine storms.

Sjogren’s & Inflammation: A Delicate Balance

For those of us with Sjogren’s, our immune systems are a bit confused. They see our own tissues as the enemy, leading to chronic inflammation and symptoms like dryness, fatigue, and pain.

Research points to "leaky" barriers – in our gut, lungs, sinuses, and skin – as key players. These barriers, normally tightly regulated, become more permeable, allowing things through that shouldn’t. This triggers the immune system and fuels that cycle of inflammation.

Taming the Flames: Supporting Healthy Inflammation

While we can't completely control inflammation (especially with autoimmune diseases), we can support a healthy response through lifestyle:

• Eat the Rainbow: A colorful, whole-foods diet is your secret weapon. Those vibrant fruits, veggies, and good fats (omega-3s from salmon, walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds –– yes, please!) fight inflammation from within!

• Move Your Body: Find your movement sweet spot! Regular, moderate exercise helps regulate the immune system.

• Clean Up Your Environment: Reduce toxins in your home and personal care products. Cleaner air and fewer chemicals mean less burden on your barriers (and your immune system!).

• Stress Less: Chronic stress fuels inflammation! Find what helps you relax –– even 5 minutes of deep breathing can make a difference.

My Sjogren's & Inflammation Journey: Finding What Works

Just like my patients, I have to find my own balance with Sjogren’s! I adjust my diet, prioritize stress management, move my body gently, and listen closely to what my body needs.

Let’s Talk Inflammation!

What are your go-to strategies for supporting a healthy inflammatory response? What questions do you have? Share your experiences in the comments –– let’s learn from each other!