Ma. Angela S. Mejia
BSMT 1-2
Relate the 5 major signs of inflammation and how they are produced
1. Redness (rubor) - Redness is caused by the dilation of small blood vessels in the area of
injury. Inflamed areas of the body may appear red because the blood vessels of inflamed
areas are filled with more blood than usual.
2. Heat (calor) - Results from increased blood flow through the area and is experienced only in
peripheral parts of the body such as the integumentary system or the skin. People that have
arthritic conditions may have inflamed joints that feel warm to the touch.
3. Swelling (tumour) - It is called “edema”, caused primarily by the accumulation of fluid outside
our blood vessels. Swelling can occur without inflammation, especially with injuries.
4. Pain (dolor) - The pain is associated with inflammation results in part from the distortion of
tissues caused by edema, it also is enduced by certain chemical mediators of inflammation
such as bradykinin, serotonin, and prostaglandins. Pain is the result of inflammatory chemicals
that stimulates nerve endings, causing the affected areas to feel more sensitive.
5. Loss of function (functio laesa) - It may result from pain from pain that inhibits mobility or from
severe swelling that prevents movement in the area. For example, an inflamed joint may not
move properly, or a respiratory infection causing signs of inflammation in the lungs may make
it difficult to breathe.
https://www.britannica.com/science/inflammation.
https://www.verywellhealth.com/signs-of-inflammation.
Image from: livealtlife.com
