How to Control Pain

Pain is a tough thing to deal with and is difficult to control, especially since it affects everybody in a unique way. While some pain can be treated, other forms of pain have to be dealt with without medication. It is important to determine what type of pain you have and treat it accordingly.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Think about the type of pain you have and decide whether it is somatic, visceral or neuropathic. Somatic pain is often described as an ache and is located in one general area. Visceral pain tends to be felt in a wide area over the body and comes from a pressure deep inside your body--examples of this are growths and internal bruising. Neuropathic pain is when your nerves are damaged, inflamed or trapped.
2. Consult with your doctor to see what choices you have in controlling your pain. If your doctor recommends medication, inquire about side effects and risks. Ask about homeopathic remedies that might be less harsh to your system.
3. Educate yourself on the various medications and research how they interact with other medicines. Get a second opinion from another doctor, pharmacist or medical textbooks.
4. Focus on relaxation when your pain is particularly intense. Be aware that chronic pain often leads to depression, and the side effects of some drugs also lead to depression. Combat this with professional help, if necessary, and remain involved with as many of your former interests and activities as possible.
5. Turn negative thoughts about your pain to positive thoughts on what you are still capable of doing. Control your management of pain by developing healthy eating and sleeping habits so your body is as strong as possible to control your pain.
6. Attend support groups so you can connect with other people with similar problems and share solutions and coping mechanisms.