Chronic Pain

We hear people talk about Chronic Pain, but do we really understand what Chronic Pain is?

There are two main types of pain, acute and chronic. Acute pain is like when you break a bone and the pain is agonizing. Think of the worst pain you've had or can imagine and make this a 9. Acute pain is 9 or 10 level pain and is usually, hopefully, only for a short time until you get to medical help.

Chronic pain is pain that is there for long periods of time, like weeks, month, years and sometimes decades. Chronic pain can go from a 1 right through to a 10 but it doesn't let  up...it goes on and on and on.

Let me give you an example from my life. I have fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis. In 1991 I injured my back and it was discovered that I had HLAB27+ a condition which affects the bodies ability to heal. The result was that at only 28yrs of age I was told I would never work again and I would have to live with chronic pain.

I have done everything to counter that diagnosis and was able to return to work briefly, but then the pain returned with a vengeance. It was then that I was given my current diagnosis.

Over the last 20 years apart from a small period of respite I have had to cope with chronic pain. Most days my pain starts at a 2 to 3 and depending on what I do or the weather or stress, it can rise to a 9 or 10. (fortunately for me most times my pain killers keep it below an 8)

The feeling this gives you is one of being overwhelmed, there is no long term relief, and even max pain killers only give you an 80% reduction.

Why am I telling you this? Because I am not alone, many people who look fit and healthy are actually suffering with what we call the invisable illnesses. If you know someone who suffers from chronic pain ask them if you can do something practical to help. Apart from that, understand that they want to participate in life but are often unable to or often start out enjoying something only to have leave or stop because of the pain. But we still want to be asked and included. We know our limits and will say no if it is beyond us.

Chronic pain wears out the body and the brain chemicals are also used up quicker and so the mind struggles to cope as well as the body gets tired. Many people with chronic pain also suffer with chronic fatigue. This is because their bodies are worn out just coping with the pain before they have done anything at all.

So how do we deal with chronic pain. We read up on it as much as possible so we understand it, we join support groups so that we feel there are other people who understand us and then we have to try to find a way to still contribute to society and give ourselves a feeling of usefullness. Fortunately the internet has made that possible for so many of us. If nothing else, we can support others, but we can also learn from home, do art and scan it for others to see, do photography as I do or any number of other things.

So if you suffer with chronic pain I would encourage you not to give up, but to be kind to yourself and if it's a tough day, week, or month then rest knowing it will get back to a better level and if you know people who suffer with chronic pain, ask them what it is really like for them living with their condition and really listen to their response.