Understanding Problems with Pain
Occasional aches and pains are totally normal every now and then. However, chronic pain – which is defined by the CDC as pain lasting three or more months – is a big public health issue commonly reported by older adults and people with disabilities that can impact quality of life. Knowing the differences between normal aches and pains versus warning signs of something more serious is key to helping you better understand and manage your physical health, and get support if needed.
Environmental changes
Have you ever experienced increased aches or pains during weather changes? You’re not alone, but there is an explanation for it. Hotter temperatures are associated with dehydration, which increases the chance of joint inflammation or flare-ups, while cold temperatures are associated with joint or muscle stiffness. For these reasons, it’s common for people to report pain during extreme changes in weather. But for people with chronic pain, temperatures can worsen the symptoms of their condition. According to the Arthritis Foundation, many people living with arthritis – a chronic health condition that affects the joints – have reported increased joint inflammation in humid conditions while colder temperatures are associated with joint stiffening. People living with fibromyalgia – a chronic health condition that causes pain and tiredness – may also experience increased pain or stiffness during cold or damp weather, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Length and intensity of pain
Older adults and people with disabilities are more likely than others to experience aches, pains, or sores due to natural aging and prolonged sitting in wheelchairs, chairs,or beds. This does not always have to indicate the presence of an underlying chronic condition; sometimes these pains are preventable with a few changes to your lifestyle (e.g. exercise, better sleep, healthy diet). However, depending on how your pain feels and how long it’s been bothering you, it may be a sign of something more serious. According to the Mayo Clinic, migraines, which are chronic headaches, can cause severe throbbing pain or a pulsing sensation that can last for hours to days. Plus, a common symptom of fibromyalgia is a feeling of burning, aching, or throbbing in different parts of the body, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases.
Impact on daily living
While occasional pains can be normal, it is not normal for these pains to keep us from functioning throughout the day. Oftentimes untreated chronic pain, especially if it is severe, can disrupt our life. According to the U.S. Pain Foundation, 20 million adults live with high-impact pain, or pain that often limits daily activities. They also reported that about 83% of those with high-impact pain are unable to work. People living with chronic pain are also more likely to experience loneliness, according to the National Library of Medicine. Lack of mobility may encourage people in pain to stay home more often, which can lead to social isolation and add to their symptoms.
Changes in behavior
Physical and emotional health are very closely connected. With this in mind, some symptoms of chronic pain go beyond the physical, dealing more with its impact on one’s mental health. According to the American Psychiatric Association, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues commonly occur at the same time as chronic pain from conditions like fibromyalgia, back problems, migraines and arthritis. In fact, increased stress levels can actually worsen pain, according to the U.S. Pain Foundation. Staying in touch with a support system of loved ones, or making healthier lifestyle choices can help improve minor cases of pain and boost overall mood. However, if you or someone you know is experiencing continuous stress and discomfort, it may be the result of a deeper cause.
If your pain or a loved one’s is affecting quality of life regularly, don’t ignore the signs. Speak with your doctor for help on managing pain and getting relief. For more information on managing chronic pain, visit our page on Managing Chronic Disease and Pain.
