Inflammation is a physiological response to injury or infection, characterized by redness, heat, swelling, and pain.
Acute inflammation is a short-term, rapid response that occurs in response to injury or infection and is typically resolved within a few days to a couple of weeks. It is characterized by an increase in blood flow, an influx of immune cells, and an increase in cytokine production.
Chronic inflammation, on the other hand, is a long-lasting, low-grade inflammation that can persist for months or even years. It is often the result of an ongoing irritant or the body's inability to resolve acute inflammation and can contribute to the development of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and autoimmune disorders. Chronic inflammation is characterized by the presence of inflammatory cells and the continuous production of cytokines.
In general, acute inflammation is a necessary and beneficial response to injury or infection, while chronic inflammation can be harmful and contribute to the development of chronic diseases.