Chronic Pain: What Does It Mean?

Chronic pain isn't just about enduring discomfort; it's a complex condition that can affect every aspect of your life. Sadly, many people either don’t recognize it for what it is or think they just need to "tough it out." This misunderstanding can delay treatment and lead to unnecessary suffering.

In this brief article brought to you by Southern Maryland Medical Group, we explore chronic pain and its forms as well as the steps to take toward relief. If you’d rather consult a licensed primary care physician about recurring and persistent pain, then call Southern Maryland Medical Group to schedule a convenient appointment.

Recognizing chronic pain

Pain is typically categorized into two types: acute and chronic.

• Acute pain is the kind of pain most of us are familiar with; it’s that sharp, sudden, and usually short-lived pain, like when you stub your toe or sprain your ankle. It’s your body’s way of telling you that something is wrong. Once the injury heals, the pain usually subsides.
• Chronic pain, on the other hand, lasts longer than three months and can persist even after the initial injury has healed. In many cases, chronic pain doesn’t have a clear cause and may not be tied to any specific injury or illness at all. This makes it much more complicated to treat and manage.

Common types of chronic pain

Chronic pain comes in many forms. Some of the most common conditions include:

• Arthritis, which is joint pain and inflammation that often worsens with age.
• Lingering back pain that can range from mild to severe.
• Migraines, or chronic headaches that can be debilitating and cause nausea or sensitivity to light and sound.
• Fibromyalgia, which is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain and often accompanied by fatigue and sleep and/or memory issues.
• Neuropathy, or nerve pain, which can feel like burning or tingling.

It’s worth noting that chronic pain is not necessarily just physical; it can also have emotional and psychological effects. Anxiety, depression, and even social isolation are not uncommon. Recognizing chronic pain is so important for overall well-being.

What to do if you have chronic pain

If you suspect that your pain has become chronic, the first step is to get in touch with licensed primary care doctors in District Heights. Be honest and detailed about your symptoms, how long they’ve lasted, and how they’re affecting your daily life. Don’t downplay your pain or feel like you’re burdening your doctor. Chronic pain is a legitimate medical issue and you deserve to have it addressed.

Your doctor may recommend seeing a specialist who can help you with specific strategies for managing your pain. Treatment options may include medications, physical therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), or even more advanced interventions like nerve blocks or spinal cord stimulation.

Don’t “put up with” chronic pain

Chronic pain is a complex condition that deserves prompt attention and proper treatment. If you or someone you know is living with chronic pain, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider. The professionals at Southern Maryland Medical Group are here to take your call or message and schedule a convenient appointment today.