Different types of pain.
Pain is a common condition which can be caused by any number of different factors, such as injury, surgery, illness or ongoing medical conditions. The chances are you’ve experienced pain for yourself, and in many different ways.
There are two main types of pain – acute pain and chronic pain. Let’s take a look at both.
Acute Pain
Acute pain usually starts suddenly and lasts for a shorter period of time. These are just a few of the types of acute pain:
- Post Surgery
- Toothache
- Headaches & Migraines
- Period pains & abdominal cramps
- Cold/flu (Sinus pain)
- Burns or cuts
- Sports injuries, such as sprains
Chronic Pain
Chronic pain lasts longer than acute pain (usually more than 3 months) and is generally somewhat resistant to medical treatment. It is linked with a number of conditions, including:
- Arthritis
- Nerve pain
- Back pain
What else can be done?
When it comes to managing pain, getting the right medication is of the utmost importance. But there are a few other things you can try to help reduce the impact of pain.
Maintain a healthy weight
If you are overweight, losing the extra kilos will reduce the impact on your hip and knee joints.
Stay well hydrated
Headaches are a common symptom of dehydration. Drinking plenty of water or re-hydration fluids may assist with pain relief.
TENS Therapy
Trans-cutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, or TENS machines, use small electrical currents to prompt a pain-relieving response from the body.
Hot or cold packs
A hot pack can reduce discomfort from muscle pain. A cold pack can help reduce swelling after an injury.
Relaxation & stress management
Stress can actually make your pain worse. Relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises, practising yoga or socialising with friends may help to reduce pain.
Please find below a pain chart that can be downloaded and filled in to be taken into either your local Pharmacist or Doctor.
