Chronic Pain

Chronic Pain: Understanding and Managing Long-Term Discomfort

Chronic pain is defined as pain that lasts for more than 12 weeks, often persisting even after the original injury or condition has healed. It can affect any part of the body and may be constant or come and go. Common causes include arthritis, nerve damage, fibromyalgia, back injuries, and certain autoimmune disorders.

Living with chronic pain can significantly affect quality of life, leading to fatigue, depression, sleep disturbances, and reduced physical activity. Effective treatment often requires a combination of medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.

There are several medications used to manage chronic pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and naproxen are commonly used for mild to moderate pain. For nerve-related pain, gabapentin and pregabalin (Lyrica) are often prescribed. In some cases, low-dose amitriptyline, a tricyclic antidepressant, is used for its pain-relieving properties. Duloxetine, an SNRI antidepressant, is also effective in treating pain linked with depression or anxiety.

Opioids such as tramadol or morphine may be used for severe pain, but only under strict medical supervision due to the risk of dependence.

Managing chronic pain often requires a personalized approach that balances relief with long-term safety.