Tips for dealing with Chronic Pain:
A variety of treatment methods are necessary for effective pain management because research has shown that several different mechanisms cause and aggravate chronic and acute pain. Medication is usually the first method most people turn to.
NSAIDs
Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs are available in over-the-counter and prescription strengths. They work by inhibiting the formation of prostaglandins which sensitize nerve endings, causing local heat, pain, swelling and redness. NSAIDs are helpful in the treatment of acute muscle and joint injuries, some headaches, tendonitis, menstrual cramps and chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. NSAIDs include: Aspirin, Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen, Naprosyn, Toradol, Relafen, Celebrex and Vioxx.
Common side effects include stomach pain and heartburn, an increase in the tendency to bleed, headaches, dizziness, ringing in the ears, and allergic reactions such as wheezing and hives. Long term use may cause liver or kidney damage. Side effects may be minimized by taking the medication with food and avoiding the one-dose-a-day types of NSAIDs.
OPIOIDs
Opioids, which used to be called narotics, affect specific brain and spinal cord receptors to block pain signals. This category of drugs includes: Morphine, Codeine, Oxycodone and Hydromorphone. Side effects include drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, constipation and respiratory depression. Opioids may be combined with Acetaminophen to add the anti-inflammatory effect of an NSAID.
Anti-Arrythmics
These medications reduce pain by inhibiting electrical impulses of the nerves. Examples are: Lidocaine and Mexiletine. Side effects include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision and decreased ability to concentrate on tasks such as driving an automobile. Lidocaine, which can be delivered in a pain patch, is ideal for people who do not tolerate oral medications. The patch is worn for twelve hours per day.
Anti-Convulsants
These medications decrease abnormal pain impulses and are especially helpful in the treatment of neuropathies, or nerve pain. Examples include: Carbamezepine, Valproate and Neurontin. Side effects include: stomach upset, drowsiness and tremors in the hands.
Antidepressants
Drugs such as Elavil, Pamelor, Effexor, Celexa, Prozac and Zoloft work by increasing the amount of neurotransmitters that inhibit pain signals. Side effects include: drowsiness, stomach upset, dry mouth, and blurred vision.
Medications are most effectively when taken "Round-the-clock," especially with acute post-operative pain. Pain causes biochemical changes in the body which interfere with healing after surgery. By taking the medication when ordered, you can avoid pain spikes. Many pain medications slow down the muscle action of the bowels and cause constipation. Consideration of starting a bowel program with stool softeners, or prune juice, or laxatives should be included whenever you take opioids.
Each person is different. Depending on your medical situation, for example, including how pain medication affects you, your doctor may recommend additional alternative methods to manage your pain.
Non-pharmaceutical ways to control pain include:
Soaking in a warm bath, ice packs, hot compresses, heating pads, or a hot paraffin bath.
Watching TV or a movie, playing a game, reading a book, becoming engrossed in an activity that can distract you from pain for short periods of time.
Listening to music, meditating, practicing Yoga.
Using aromatherapy, especially the scents of lavender and marigold.
Muscle relaxation, and massage, especially coupled with oils containing chamomile or peppermint.
Application of topical creams such as those containing Capsaicin for temporary relief of painful muscles or joints, the neuralgia of shingles, and certain post-operative pain.
Physical, or Occupational Therapy, and Chiropractic Therapy and directed exercise.
Maintaining a stable blood sugar by eating regular meals.
Writing in a journal several times a day to track the level of pain, using a scale of 1 to 10.
Diet and Hydration for Pain Control
What you eat and drink does affect your pain levels and pain relief. Avoiding caffeine, sugar, and the nitrates food in processed foods can decrease pain. Focus on eating a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables. Try to maintain 30% protein, 30% carbohydrates and 60% fruits and vegetables. Drink six to eight glasses of water to stay well-hydrated. Always drink a glass of water after exercise or therapy.
Develop a Plan
Developing a plan for relieving your pain puts you in control rather than allowing pain to control you. List the methods you would try and as you use them, rate their effectiveness. Keep the list posted in plain view so that on those days you have unexpected pain, you can implement your favorite methods without having to remember what has worked in the past. Your personalized plan will become your most effective method of treatment for your pain.