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Health Conditions

Pain

What is it?

Pain is an unpleasant experience primarily associated with some kind of tissue damage. Pain is your body's way of warning your brain that something might be wrong.

There are two types of pain:

  • Acute - This type of pain is usually immediate and lasts less than two weeks. Acute pain is a normal response to an injury but, if untreated, can cause significant emotional or physical problems.

  • Chronic - This is the type of pain that persists over the long term, usually for more than three months. The cause of chronic pain may not be evident but could be a sign of a serious illness that needs professional treatment. Chronic pain may be continuous, as with cancer-related pain, or intermittent. An example of intermittent pain is ulcer pain that is relieved or made worse by eating. Chronic pain is an abnormal state and should be evaluated by a doctor. No one should have to live with constant pain.

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Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not intended to diagnose a health condition, but it can be used as a guide to help you decide if you should seek professional treatment or to help you learn more about your condition once it has been diagnosed.

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Introduction

What is it?

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Who has it?

What are the risk factors?

What are the symptoms?

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