Managing Chronic Pain: A Daily Challenge

Chronic pain can cause people to feel isolated, and it affects millions in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

This type of pain is defined as lasting longer than three months, and in some cases it lasts for years. While mild aches and stiffness are common as the body changes over time, chronic pain is not a normal sign of aging.

Chronic pain might happen because of a medical condition, like cancer, or a past injury, and sometimes it remains even after you’ve recovered. It can affect you emotionally, as well as physically, and get in the way of daily routines or even lead to depression and anxiety.

What to do if this is you?

Talk with your doctor about the treatments available to manage your pain. These might include prescription medications and holistic or non-drug therapies. Some prescription medications to treat pain are very strong and should be used properly and with caution. Be sure to talk with your doctor regularly about all the medications you’re taking, including for pain, depression or other conditions, to make sure they don’t negatively interact. Always bring up any medication side effects.