Which symptom is commonly associated with inflammation?

Redness is a classic sign of inflammation and is caused by an increase in blood flow to the affected area. This vascular response is part of the body's immune defense mechanism, where blood vessels dilate to allow more immune cells and nutrients to reach the site of injury or infection. This increased blood flow brings with it increased warmth and a reddish appearance as the area becomes engorged with blood, which is a key feature of the inflammatory process.

In contrast, symptoms like weight gain or increased appetite are not directly linked to inflammation itself and are more often associated with other conditions or metabolic changes. Fatigue can occur during inflammation, but it is a more generalized response and not a specific characteristic of inflammation like redness is. Recognizing redness as a sign helps healthcare providers assess the severity and nature of an inflammatory response.