Untreated chronic inflammation can have serious effects on cognitive health, gradually impairing how the brain functions and increasing the risk of conditions like dementia.
Chronic inflammation means that the body’s immune system stays active for a long time, even when there is no immediate injury or infection. This ongoing immune response releases molecules called cytokines (such as IL-6 and TNF-α) that can harm brain cells over time. These inflammatory molecules disrupt normal brain processes by making the blood-brain barrier more permeable, allowing harmful substances to enter brain tissue and cause damage[2].
One key way chronic inflammation affects cognition is through its impact on important brain regions like the hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, and anterior cingulate cortex. These areas control memory formation, decision-making, attention, and emotional regulation. Inflammation leads to structural changes such as loss of grey matter volume and impaired synaptic plasticity—the ability of neurons to connect effectively—which results in difficulties with memory consolidation and executive function[1][3].
Moreover, activated immune cells in the brain called microglia become overactive during chronic inflammation. Instead of protecting neurons as they normally do, these primed microglia release excess inflammatory substances that worsen neuronal injury. This process has been linked to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease by promoting harmful protein build-ups like amyloid plaques[2]. The sustained neuroinflammatory environment also disrupts neurotransmitter balance (e.g., glutamate), further impairing cognitive abilities[1].
Clinically, untreated chronic inflammation may manifest initially as mild cognitive impairment—problems with memory or thinking skills beyond what is expected for age—but it can progress to more severe forms like dementia if left unmanaged[3]. Symptoms include forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating or making decisions, personality changes, anxiety, and slower mental processing.
In summary:
– Chronic inflammation keeps releasing damaging molecules that injure neurons.
– It causes structural damage in critical cognitive areas of the brain.
– Overactive microglia amplify this damage leading to worsening cognition.
– It increases risk for neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer’s.
– Cognitive symptoms range from mild impairment to severe dementia.
Addressing chronic inflammation early through lifestyle changes or medical interventions could help protect cognitive health before irreversible damage occurs[2][3].
