When there is an injury to the body, prostaglandins cause blood vessels to dilate and increase their permeability to fluid and proteins. This results in swelling and increased temperature of the affected area. Prostaglandins also increase the sensitivity of nerve endings to pain.
Aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) work to reduce pain and inflammation, in part, by reducing prostaglandin production (synthesis) in the body.

