Chronic Pain

Whether your chronic pain develops after an injury or illness or on its own, the result is often the same: a cycle of sleeplessness, inactivity, irritability, depression, and more pain.

Chronic pain may be mild to severe. It may come back from time to time over several weeks, months, or years. Exercise, good nutrition, regular massages, and pain-relieving medicines—such as Reference acetaminophen or Reference nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs Opens New Window (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or aspirin—may be enough to manage your symptoms.

On the other hand, you may have constant chronic pain that is severe and needs more than home treatment. Without treatment, Reference chronic pain syndrome can become disabling.

The lives of your family members, friends, or caregivers can also be affected. The people you count on to help you may also need some support. Reference Family therapy Opens New Window or involvement in a caregiver support program may help.

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.