Take the mystery pain online questionnaire
If you think that you have chronic pain, visit your doctor. Be prepared to clearly describe the pain you feel and which parts of your body are affected. It may help if you answer the questions on the page “How does your pain feel” and take a printout to show to your doctor. It may also help if you let your doctor know:
What the pain feels like
When the pain began
If the pain feels as though it is radiating or spreading
How severe the pain is
How often the pain occurs e.g. at certain times of the day or after certain activities
Whether the intensity of pain varies over time
You should also mention if the pain affects your work, sleep, social or private life. By describing your symptoms clearly and fully and the impact these have on your life your doctor will be better positioned to make the correct diagnosis and discuss management options with you.
Do not try to deal with your pain alone
If at all possible continue to socialize with your family and friends. Openly discuss your pain with them so they know how it affects you and if there is anything they can do to help you. You may also want to consider informing your employer and your work colleagues. Patient support groups may also be able to assist you. People suffering from and affected by pain can discuss their problems, listen to their advice and ask questions to learn more about neuropathic pain.
There are people who can help
Get advice about exercise and other techniques that may help
Although your doctor may choose to prescribe a medicine to treat your pain, there are other treatment options that they may recommend such as:
- Physical therapies (such as heat treatment)
- Physiotherapy (stretching and strengthening exercises)
- TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation)
- Acupuncture
- Exercise and relaxation techniques
By remaining physically active you can stop your muscles becoming either weak or tense, which can increase the problems caused by pain. Also, treat yourself now and again! Try to distract yourself from your pain as much as possible in any way that helps. Try meeting friends, doing a crossword, going for walks or learning a new skill.
A long-term condition needs long-term management
Neuropathic pain is caused by damage to nerves. Depending on the cause and severity of your condition the pain you feel may last for a long time, but long-term suffering as a result of neuropathic pain is often unnecessary. By recognizing your pain as neuropathic pain and discussing this with your doctor you can take the first steps to finding the right treatment for you. There is still a chance that you will not be totally pain free. You may have to try several different treatments before you find one that is right for you.