Chronic pain
About Chronic pain
Chronic pain is often due to an identifiable cause, such as degenerative arthritis in the lower back or nerve disease. However, it may also develop for no apparent reason. Despite thorough exams and tests, a doctor may be unable to find a specific physical cause.Symptoms
Long-lasting pain that persists despite treatment. Depression and anxiety commonly accompany chronic pain.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests to rule out a reversible cause of the pain are usually recommended. This may include blood tests and imaging studies.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Lipase, MRI, Urinalysis (UA), X-ray.
OTC sleep aids and supportive treatments
Prescription medications
- Fluoxetine
- Imipramine
- Protriptyline
- Bupropion
- Atomoxetine
- Fluvoxamine
- Desvenlafaxine
- Amoxapine
- Clomipramine
- Trimipramine
- Selegiline
- Doxepin
- Venlafaxine
- Isocarboxazid
- Trazodone
- Nortriptyline
- Sertraline
- Phenelzine
- Amitriptyline
- Mirtazapine
- Duloxetine
- Paroxetine
- Desipramine
- Tranylcypromine
- Citalopram
- Escitalopram
- Morphine Oral
- Tramadol
- Acetaminophen and Propoxyphene
- Fentanyl Buccal (Transmucosal)
- Acetaminophen and Codeine
- Hydrocodone
- Fentanyl Transdermal
- Hydromorphone Oral and Rectal
- Meperidine
- Oxycodone
Conventional treatment summary
Treatment includes: pain medications, antidepressant medications, and psychological treatment. Non-drug treatments for pain include: massage, acupuncture, relaxation training, and electrical nerve stimulation (called TENS). If effective, nerve stimulators may be surgically implanted in appropriate patients.Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Pediatrics · Family Practice · Pain Medicine · Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Chronic pain.