$Unique_ID{BRK01211}
$Pretitle{Mental and Emotional Conditions}
$Title{Can a Person Think a Pain is Worse Than it Really is?}
$Subject{pain emotions perception}
$Volume{E-1}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Can a Person Think a Pain is Worse Than it Really is?


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QUESTION:  Is it possible that a person can think a pain is worse than it
really is?  That would make them stay in bed and avoid other activities, and
become an invalid when there is no reason to.  The answer to this question is
very important to me.

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ANSWER:  The mind is a powerful weapon, and it can be used either to fight
illness and pain or to make them worse.  Pain is felt because of interactions
of many physical factors.  Some people are more sensitive to these factors
than others.  But the perception of pain also depends on the mind's
interaction with the body.
     Some people with chronic conditions "learn" a pain cycle that they must
"unlearn" if they are to diminish their pain.  Think about it.  Once someone
begins to suffer from chronic pain, he may receive some rewards as a result of
it.  These rewards are termed "secondary gain" by physicians, and they need to
be recognized by the person who is in pain.  Extra attention from loved ones
results from the chronic pain, and in such cases it is not surprising that the
pain seems to continue indefinitely.  While this is not the case for everyone,
it is a danger that all persons with chronic pain and their families must be
alert to.  The mature, well adjusted person will recognize this behavior and
work to stop it before it creates an unhealthy situation.  To break a learned
pain cycle, encouragement from family, friends and physician are essential.
However before you jump to conclusions consult with your doctor, for constant
pain is a terrible enemy, and sympathy and understanding are great friends.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
