Inflammation is our body's first reaction to infection. When a person gets a cut, for instance- which damages the tissue - those dreaded invaders (called bacteria) enter the body, and the immune system kicks in immediately.This defence mode sends out many different types of specialised immune cells. Each cell has a different job.

Mast cells release histidine and cytokines, which alert your body of the damage. Histidine's main job is to increase blood flow to this damaged area which causes the redness and swelling.

Cells found in the connective tissue and epidermis of the skin, called macrophages,
(commonly known as large eating cells), then enter into the area. Macrophages' job
is to secrete immune messenger that destroys the bacteria, cleaning up
the damaged area.

The final process is for the cavalry of immune cells to enter the infected area to
help with the battle, followed by more cells which begin the healing process.
During this healing process, the area will become red, hot, swollen,
and usually,very painful. What causes this?

Redness: increased blood flow to the area
Hotness: the battle taking place to kill bacteria and heal the area
Swollen: the excess fluid and cells at the site
Pain: the indicator of inflammation
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