The relationship between inflammation and cognitive decline Chronic diseases and lifestyle habits
Inflammation is the body’s natural response to infection, injury, pathogens, inflammation, or oxidative stress. However, this response may play a significant role in cognitive decline and impaired mental performance. When inflammation occurs, the body’s cells attempt to fight the infection, which results in the release of certain chemicals that trigger a reaction in the surrounding area, causing localized inflammation that is often accompanied by pain and swelling.
How chronic inflammation affects the brain
“Inflammation in brain tissue caused by an excessive immune response or prolonged infection can lead to decline in neuronal and cognitive function,” said Dr. Venus Taneja, consultant, medical department, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital. Chronic inflammation can disrupt the blood-brain barrier and affect inflammatory indicators such as interleukins and C-reactive protein.
Increased risk in older adults
“Older adults are more susceptible to these conditions, and people with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and obesity are also at higher risk of cognitive decline,” Tanya says. “We know that inflammation is a major contributing factor in neurodegenerative diseases such as vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s.”
Lifestyle Factors and Inflammation
Lifestyle habits can also contribute to chronic inflammation: “Lack of exercise, chronic stress, obesity, unhealthy eating habits like oily, junk and processed foods, sleep disorders, exposure to toxins and air pollution, smoking and alcohol consumption are all potential contributors,” said Dr Vipul Gupta, director, Neurointerventional Group, Paras Hospitals, Gurugram.
Types of inflammation
There are two types of inflammation: acute and chronic. Acute inflammation occurs when you have recurring fevers or infections. However, some conditions can cause chronic inflammation, such as autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, and mental illnesses like anxiety and depression.
Prevention measures
So how can you prevent it? “Prevention includes incorporating regular physical activity and exercise into your daily life, avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption, consuming fresh, unprocessed fruits and vegetables, and emphasizing a Mediterranean diet,” says Gupta.
Suggestions to reduce inflammation
Dr Taneja noted that chronic stress can also lead to inflammation and recommended managing stress through meditation, yoga and relaxation techniques. “Chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension should be controlled, which indirectly helps in reducing chronic inflammation,” he said.
Health experts also recommend maintaining a healthy weight. If you are experiencing symptoms of chronic inflammation, you should undergo a thorough medical check-up so that the underlying problem or illness can be identified and appropriate treatment can be administered.