18 Years of Experience in Psychiatry Acupuncture and Micronutrients
At least 34 million Americans suffer from chronic pain caused by conditions including arthritis, lower back problems, neuralgia, or migraine headaches. Some 15 million working Americans have pain on a chronic basis.
Having injured my back this summer, I have come to learn a lot about pain firsthand. Pain can be hard to define. It means different things to different people and your own perception of pain can change over time. For some people, acknowledging pain is a sign of weakness. What most people don't realize is that pain is a medical problem -- and that it can be treated.
It is difficult. No lab tests or X-rays can convey to your doctor what you are feeling. But even when pain is intense, many people struggle to find the words to describe it to the doctor. It is important to understand whether you suffer from acute or chronic pain.
Acute pain is not related to an ongoing condition and declines when you recover from the illness, injury, or surgery that initially caused the pain. Acute pain usually lasts for no longer than it takes to heal.
Chronic pain is constant or recurrent and is caused by a long-term condition (arthritis) or a progressive illness (cancer). Chronic pain lasts for months -- and it may last a lifetime. Chronic pain takes a psychological as well as a physical toll. It can lead to anxiety, anger, depression, and insomnia. Chronic pain sufferers may find it difficult or impossible to work and hard to do the things they once enjoyed. Chronic pain can even disrupt a person's relationships with family and friends.
Let's consider some of the more devastating psychological effects of chronic pain:
Pain patients often encounter numerous obstacles in their attempts to find a healthcare professional educated on current clinical thinking in pain management, pain assessment, and pain treatment. What should frustrated patients do? Be aggressive and, above all, educate yourself so you know the right questions to ask.
Become an effective advocate
These articles are not intended as Medical advice, and the author assumes no responsibility for actions taken based on the information contained in this article. If Medical advice or other expert assistance is required, the services of a competent professional should be sought.