Pain is one of the most common shared experiences we have as living beings. In fact, only one in 1 million people have no sensitivities to it, or cannot feel physical pain. Some of us are guilty of tolerating it, or brushing it aside when it’s not “too much”. But what exactly is pain, and what are the risks of ignoring it?
PAIN: DEFINITION AND CAUSE
It is what we call the uncomfortable sensations we experience in our bodies. It is caused by various circumstances and can be due to an injury, an accident, or a side effect of a treatment or illness. Due to these, anomalies in the body (inflammation, bruises, or punctures, etc.) become present. These send signals to the brain through the nervous system. Because the sensations are triggered by these signals, rare conditions can hinder these signals that ultimately cause a high tolerance to it.
It can also be subjective because our brain process information differently. Due to this, you may have similar injuries with someone but experience different levels of pain from that injury.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN IF WE IGNORE IT?
Because it is felt as different sensations with different intensities, it can range from feeling numb or dull to a sharp or piercing pain. These variations can also be why pain can impact our capacities and mobility. Someone experiencing unbearable pain might not have the capacity to move or even stand. It can really affect our day-to-day lives.
Unmanaged pain can mean that the sensations and intensities can become a prolonged or recurring issue or both. In some cases, ignoring its root cause is also allowing the cause to bring more damage and that may bring more intense pain. If it is severe enough, it can also cause cardiac overstimulation which may even cause death.
HOW CAN WE MANAGE IT?
There are treatments accessible for most pain due to scientific improvements and medications currently available. We can manage it through medication, therapy sessions, and alternative treatments like acupuncture, chiropractic therapies, herbal medication, among others. This is key to being able to reduce or eliminate it to improve the quality of your life.
If you’re experiencing pain that can’t be managed through existing over-the-counter medication, or if it has been going on for an extended period of time, you should consult your doctor. Don’t hesitate to find a second opinion if the option is available to you. It’s important to find a doctor you can trust to discuss your treatment options with and work together with you to get you there.
