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During the course of our lives we subject our bodies to all matters of physical endurance. Either through disease, accidental or known injury causing environments it can become necessary to resort to various methods of pain relief in order that we may manage the associated pain, due to injury, an emotional disorder or a disease.

The type and quantity of medication for the pain relief will be dependent upon the level, the area, and the duration of the pain.

The first step in understanding which method of pain relief is required is through either self or medical diagnosis.

In certain circumstances over-the-counter medication is all that is necessary to mask the pain and allow our bodies to repair and recuperate.

The most common forms of pain experienced are that of a headache, muscular pain, backache and the pains and aches associated with the common cold virus.

In these circumstances a variety of non-prescription analgesics are available:

* Paracetamol and Aspirin - For mild to moderate pain relief. For the use in alleviating headaches, muscular pain, cold and flu symptoms.

* Anti inflammatory - Medications such as Ibuprofen which act as a pain killer and is combined with anti inflammation properties to aid relief from pains such as arthritis.

* Opiates - The use of a weak morphine type medication like Codeine or Dihydrocodeine which act as a painkiller, but is a stronger form than Paracetamol and Aspirin based products.

* As well as in tablet form you can obtain medication that can be applied directly onto the skin. The use of a topical gel or cream for muscle and joint pain.

WARNING - When using over the counter medication it is essential to read the instructions carefully and to only digest the recommended dosages. If you have any queries, particularly if you are taking any other medications, you should always consult the pharmacist or your own doctor. Prolonged use with over-the-counter medications can lead to additional health problems.

Sometimes a pain will not be relieved by non-prescription medications, or the pain will appear to be of a persistent nature. In these circumstances it is necessary to seek advice from a health care professional.

A diagnosis may then be made by the medical practitioner, in the form of a prescribed medication, or the use of surgery to alleviate the symptoms.

Prescribed medication can include a more potent acting painkiller for physical symptoms, or the use of medications such as anti-depressants to relieve psychological pain.

Chronic Pain

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