Chronic pain is the leading cause of a long-term disability in the United States. As a matter of fact, its prevalence is higher than diabetes, heart disease, and cancer combined. As a community pharmacy in Jersey City, New Jersey, we believe that we have to bring awareness about this condition.
Palace Drugs and Liquors answers some of the most frequently asked questions about chronic pain.
- HOW DO I KNOW I HAVE CHRONIC PAIN?
Injuries, certain diseases, or nerve problems can bring tortious pain. That is normal. However, if the pain persists for more than six months or even after the injury or health issue has already been healed, you may already be suffering from chronic pain. - IS THERE ANYTHING I CAN DO TO MANAGE MY PAIN?
Living with chronic pain is tough. It can cause you not only physical problems but also emotional distress. The good news is that you do not have to put up with the pain. There are things you can do to lessen it, such as:
- Take painkillers (but ask your doctor or pharmacist about it first).
- Learn stress management techniques.
- Engage in physical activities.
- Maintain good sleep habits.
- IS IT ALWAYS CAUSED BY PHYSICAL PROBLEMS?
As we mentioned earlier, chronic pain is typically a result of an injury or a disease. However, psychological problems, such as anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders, can also lead to chronic pain. That is why doctors sometimes refer their patients to a psychologist to help them deal with their pain. - IS IT TRUE THAT SMOKING CAN CAUSE CHRONIC PAIN?
Smoking does not cause chronic pain. At least, not directly. Still, it can decrease the blood flow to your joints, which can delay the healing of your injury, as well as increase the risk of further injury. - DO ONLY ELDERS GET IT?
Chronic pain does not target a particular age group. People from all walks of life can suffer from it. It is just more prevalent among the senior population because the diseases usually associated with chronic pain is age-related. Arthritis and osteoporosis are the most common age-related diseases that can lead to chronic pain. - HOW DOES IT AFFECT ME?
Chronic pain can affect you in so many ways. It can limit your ability to do basic day-to-day tasks. Taking a bath or shower on your own can become quite challenging. Chronic pain can also increase your risks of fall accidents. - DOES IT AFFECT MY LOVED ONES ALSO?
It definitely can. Chronic pain does not only affect the person who has it but also their family and friends. It is not easy for your loved ones to see you in excruciating pain. Isolating yourself away from your loved ones will also not do them any good. They will just worry more about your condition.
Palace Drugs and Liquors is a healthcare pharmacy in New Jersey. In case your question is not on the list, feel free to shoot us an e-mail. Always remember, do not let chronic pain ruin your life.