What are the four classic symptoms of inflammation?

The four classic symptoms of inflammation are erythema, edema, pain, and heat. Erythema refers to redness of the skin resulting from increased blood flow to the affected area due to vasodilation. Edema is the swelling that occurs as fluid accumulates in the tissues, a response to injury or infection. Pain arises from the release of various chemicals that stimulate nerve endings and signal injury or irritation. Heat is caused by the increased blood flow that not only delivers immune cells but also raises the temperature in the inflamed area, which can help to limit pathogen growth.

Each of these symptoms plays a crucial role in the body's inflammatory response, which is a protective mechanism designed to help the body heal and defend against infection or injury. The other options mentioned different symptoms or conditions that may arise from inflammation or other processes but do not accurately represent the classic four symptoms associated with inflammation itself.