What is a common sign of acute inflammation?

A common sign of acute inflammation is fever, which occurs as part of the body's immune response. When tissues are injured or infected, the body releases chemical signals like cytokines and prostaglandins that can reset the hypothalamus in the brain, leading to an increase in body temperature. This rise in temperature serves to enhance immune function and create an environment that is less favorable for the growth of pathogens. Fever can also stimulate the production of white blood cells and other components essential in combating infection.

Weight loss, a slow healing process, and increased appetite are not typical signs of acute inflammation. Weight loss may be associated with chronic conditions or prolonged illness, while a slow healing process can indicate various underlying issues, such as poor circulation or infection that doesn't resolve. Increased appetite is generally not a response associated with inflammation; instead, inflammatory processes often suppress appetite as the body reallocates energy toward immune functions.