When we experience a sudden pain it is natural to look for the cause and eliminate it. If the pain was triggered by a thorn in our foot, we’d simply remove it. If the pain persists for longer, we might take a paracetamol, or use an ice-pack. Usually, such methods work. But sometimes the pain does not go away. When the pain persists for more than three months, it is called chronic pain, and the story becomes more complicated.
Around 20 percent of adults experience some form of chronic pain. For many, it can be disabling and distressing. Chronic pain is rarely relieved by painkillers (analgesics) or surgery — although that doesn’t stop people trying these options.
When any pain persists, it is important to have a thorough medical examination to identify or rule out specific causes that might be treatable or manageable. Some kinds of chronic pain can be due to an underlying disease or condition, like arthritis or a tumour.
