Chronic Inflammation Support in Johnson City, TN

The Effects of Inflammation on the Body

Inflammation is the body's natural response to injury, infection, or stress. It helps protect tissues and supports their repair. Swelling, redness, and pain are common signs that inflammation is at work.

Dr. Akoury explains that normally, the body's defense mechanisms manage inflammation efficiently, keeping us healthy without our conscious effort. However, inflammation can sometimes occur at low levels without noticeable symptoms. This type of chronic, low-grade inflammation may contribute to various health challenges over time.

Chronic inflammation can affect multiple systems in the body. For example:

• Pancreas: inflammation may impact insulin regulation and blood sugar control.
• Immune system: persistent inflammation can affect immune function and overall health.
• Organs and tissues: ongoing inflammation may play a role in the development or progression of various chronic conditions.

It is important to note that inflammation is rarely the only factor behind any disease. Multiple factors, including genetics, lifestyle, environment, and other health conditions, also influence risk and outcomes.

Supportive and adjunctive care alongside conventional medical treatment.

How Inflammation Can Affect the Brain and Body

Inflammation not only impacts organs but may also influence how the brain communicates with the rest of the body. The hypothalamus, often called the brain's command center, helps regulate important processes such as sleep, appetite, and energy use.

Research shows that certain proteins called pro-inflammatory cytokines can affect these signals. This may contribute to changes in mood, energy, and behavior. For example:

• Mood and energy: chronic inflammation may be associated with symptoms such as fatigue, low mood, or altered sleep patterns. See also Chronic Fatigue.
• Appetite and metabolism: inflammation can influence how the body processes calories and regulates appetite.

It is important to note that inflammation is only one factor among many that can affect mood, weight, or energy levels. Genetics, lifestyle, medical conditions, and other environmental factors also play a role.

If you experience fatigue, mood changes, or other health concerns, consulting a healthcare professional can help identify potential underlying causes and guide personalized strategies for wellness.

Who This May Be Appropriate For

This service may be appropriate for:

• Adults who want to understand how low-grade inflammation may relate to their energy, mood, weight or overall health
• People living with a diagnosed inflammatory or chronic condition who want supportive, educational care alongside their specialists
• Those looking for a physician-led evaluation of lifestyle, nutrition and environmental factors that may influence inflammation
• People who want personalized nutrition guidance designed to help support their body's inflammatory balance
• Adults who prefer an integrative, whole-person approach to their wellness goals

A consultation with Dr. Akoury helps decide whether this service is a good fit for you. It is not a substitute for emergency care or for care from your specialists.

What to Expect at AWAREmed

Your first step is a consultation with Dr. Akoury. She reviews your medical history, clinical data such as recent lab results, and lifestyle factors including nutrition, sleep, stress and environment. Based on this review, she may suggest a personalized plan of nutrition and lifestyle guidance designed to help support a healthy inflammatory balance, alongside the care you receive from your other physicians.

Learn more about Dr. Akoury's background and integrative approach.

Take Action

Chronic inflammation is a uniquely diverse condition, with a wide variety of causes, symptoms, and care options. Please call (423) 430-6170 or contact us online to set up your appointment.

New to AWAREmed? See what to expect at your first visit.

Related reading: Living with chronic fatigue syndrome: a practical guide

Frequently Asked Questions