Living with chronic pain

Overview

Pain and mood affect each other.

Opioids aren't usually best for long-term pain.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Pain lasting more than 3 months

Less common

• Poor sleep
• Low mood

Look up a symptom: Trouble sleeping

When to get medical care

Causes

Injuries, arthritis, nerve damage.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Possible complications

• Depression

Diagnosis

A clinician reviews pain.

Treatment

Build a plan.

Self-care

• Gentle daily movement
• Regular sleep
• Pace activities
• Try mind-body skills

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Physical therapy, CBT, and pain clinics.

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a pain medicine specialist.

Living with it

• Keep a simple diary of symptoms, triggers, and medicines to bring to visits.
• Bring a list of your medicines and questions to each visit.
• Stay active in ways that feel good to you.
• Get enough sleep and manage stress.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can keep working or going to school.
• Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Life can improve.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Can I see a pain specialist?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Living with chronic pain