Chronic pain is persistent pain that lasts more than three months; in some instances, it can last for years. This type of pain can interfere with daily life, affecting not only your physical health but also your mental health.
Many different conditions can cause chronic pain, including multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, arthritis, spinal stenosis, chronic migraine, lupus, myofascial pain syndrome, Crohn’s disease and endometriosis.
Living with daily and constant pain can be emotionally stressful, and those living with chronic pain are at an increased risk of developing mental health problems, such as:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Suicidal thoughts
- Adjustment disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
Mental health conditions may also make chronic pain feel worse, as they can increase the brain’s sensitivity to pain and reduce a person’s ability to cope with symptoms.
Because chronic pain and mental health can be bidirectional- where pain can worsen mental health and mental health can worsen pain- the most effective treatment approach is treating both the pain and the mental health impact together.
Treatment may involve medications, cognitive behavioral therapy, mind-body techniques such as meditation, integrative health therapies such as acupuncture, and pain rehabilitation programs.
If you are experiencing chronic pain or the mental health challenges associated with it, please schedule an appointment at Flushing Hospital Medical Center by calling 718-670-5486.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.