Inflammation is your body’s natural defense system—it helps fight infections and heal injuries. But when inflammation becomes chronic, it turns from friend to foe, quietly damaging cells and tissues over time. 

In Nigeria, many people live with ongoing pain, fatigue, or conditions like arthritis, without realizing that chronic inflammation may be at the root. From joint pain and digestive issues to fatigue and brain fog, inflammation often hides beneath the surface until it triggers something more serious. 

Functional medicine offers a root-cause approach, helping you understand why inflammation is happening and how to calm it naturally—without depending solely on painkillers. 

What is Chronic Inflammation? 

Unlike acute inflammation (the redness or swelling that happens when you get injured), chronic inflammation is low-grade and persistent. It often results from underlying triggers that keep the immune system “on alert” for too long. 

Over time, this ongoing immune activity can contribute to: 

• Arthritis and joint pain 

• Autoimmune diseases 

• Heart disease and hypertension 

• Diabetes and obesity 

• Gut disorders (like IBS or ulcerative colitis) 

• Brain fog and chronic fatigue 

Common Causes of Chronic Inflammation 

In functional medicine, we don’t just suppress inflammation—we look for the root causes fueling it. Common triggers include: 

• Poor diet (high in refined carbs, sugar, or processed foods) 

• Gut imbalance (dysbiosis or leaky gut) 

• Unmanaged stress and elevated cortisol 

• Toxin exposure (from the environment, food, or beauty products) 

• Hidden infections or unresolved immune responses 

• Hormonal imbalances 

When these are addressed, inflammation naturally subsides—and healing begins. 

The Functional Medicine Approach to Healing Inflammation 

Here’s how a functional medicine doctor in Lagos would approach chronic inflammation differently from conventional care: 

1. Comprehensive Testing 

We go beyond routine blood work to check inflammation markers (like CRP and ESR), gut microbiome balance, and nutrient deficiencies. 

2. Personalized Nutrition 

We help you build an anti-inflammatory diet rich in: 

• Omega-3 fats (from fish, chia, or flaxseeds) 

• Antioxidants (from colorful fruits and vegetables) 

• Herbs and spices (like turmeric, ginger, and garlic) 

• Whole, unprocessed foods tailored to your body’s needs 

3. Gut Healing Protocols 

Since inflammation often starts in the gut, functional medicine focuses on restoring the intestinal lining, balancing bacteria, and identifying food sensitivities that might be causing immune reactions. 

4. Lifestyle and Stress Management 

Exercise, quality sleep, and stress reduction (through prayer, breathwork, or mindfulness) help regulate inflammatory hormones. 

5. Natural Supplements 

Depending on your test results, targeted nutrients like curcumin, omega-3s, vitamin D, and probiotics may be added to speed up recovery. 

Real Healing, Not Just Relief 

Painkillers may numb inflammation temporarily, but they don’t solve what’s causing it. Functional medicine helps you rebalance the body from the inside out, restoring your energy, easing joint pain, and improving your quality of life. 

Whether it’s chronic joint pain, autoimmune conditions, or fatigue, your body can heal when the root cause is identified and addressed. 

 Ready to Begin Your Healing Journey? 

If you’re tired of living with constant pain or inflammation, it’s time to dig deeper. 

 At FxMed, we help you uncover the underlying triggers of your symptoms and guide you through a personalized healing plan that works naturally with your body. 

 Book a Functional Medicine Discovery Call today to start your journey toward real, lasting wellness.