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Inflammation is not inherently bad—it is essential for healing. The problem arises when inflammation becomes chronic, systemic, and unregulated.

At Sheen Vein Aesthetics & Functional Medicine in St. Louis, we see inflammation as a central thread connecting many seemingly unrelated conditions.

Acute vs Chronic Inflammation

• Acute inflammation: short-term, protective
• Chronic inflammation: persistent, damaging

Chronic inflammation quietly contributes to disease progression long before symptoms become obvious.

Diseases Linked to Chronic Inflammation

• Cardiovascular disease
• Autoimmune disorders
• Neurodegenerative conditions
• Metabolic dysfunction
• Chronic pain syndromes
• Vein disease and circulatory problems

How Inflammation Damages Blood Vessels

Inflammation disrupts vascular tone, increases permeability, and weakens vein walls. Over time, this promotes venous insufficiency, swelling, and pain.

👉 Internal link: Read more about Why Varicose Veins Cause Pain.

Why Treating Symptoms Alone Falls Short

Anti-inflammatory medications may reduce symptoms but rarely address why inflammation exists in the first place.

Functional medicine evaluates:

• Gut health
• Metabolic stress
• Hormonal imbalance
• Environmental exposures

A Functional Medicine Model in St. Louis

Our clinic prioritizes identifying inflammatory drivers so patients experience lasting improvement, not temporary relief.

👉 Internal link: Visit our Chronic Inflammation & Functional Medicine page.

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