Pain medications, also known as pain relievers, are medicines that are used to relieve pain. Pain is a sensation generated by the nervous system. It may be sharp, aching, throbbing, or scorching. Analgesics are drugs that block or diminish the experience of pain.
They come in many forms and strength levels. Dr. Brian Blick is a pain management specialist who has dedicated his career to helping others find relief from chronic pain. He has extensive learning and knowledge in the field of medicine.
How various pain medications work:
There are different types of pain medications, and they work in different ways.
- Some work by blocking pain signals from reaching the brain.
- Others interfere with the production of pain signals in the body. Some work on both doorsteps to provide relief.
- In general, over-the-counter (OTC) analgesics are less potent than prescription medications.
How to take the pain medicines:
- Pain medications can be taken orally (by mouth), rectally (by rectum), or topically (applied to the skin).
- The right type and amount of medication depend on the intensity and duration of the pain, as well as the person’s age, health condition, and other factors.
- People with chronic pain may need to take pain medications on a regular basis to control their symptoms.
These medications can have side effects, so it’s important to work closely with a healthcare provider to find the best possible treatment plan.
The science behind pain medications:
Pain is an acute sensation that involving and affecting both brain and the body. When pain signals reach the brain, they’re interpreted as pain. The interpretation of pain can vary from person to person.
Types of pain to know about:
There are different types of pain, including acute pain, chronic pain, and neuropathic pain.
- Acute pain is the most common type of pain. It’s typically sharp and short-lived.
- Chronic pain is persistent and can last for weeks, months, or even years.
- Neuropathic pain is caused by damage to the nervous system. It’s often described as burning, shooting, or tingling.
Pain medications work by interfering with different stages of the pain pathway. Some work by blocking the transmission of pain signals from the body to the brain. Others work by reducing the production of pain signals in the body. Some work on both doorsteps to provide relief.
Endnote:
OTC analgesics are typically less potent than prescription medications. They’re often used for mild to moderate pain relief. Prescription analgesics are used for more severe pain. They can have potentially serious side effects.
So it’s important to work closely with a healthcare provider to find the best possible treatment plan, says Dr. Blick who moved to Elk City where he began practicing as Chief of Anesthesia at Great Plains Regional Medical Center after completing his residency at the University of Oklahoma.
In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Blick has also conducted research on the efficacy of various pain treatments and has authored several scientific articles on the subject. In recognition of his work, Dr. Blick was recently named a Fellow of the American Academy of Pain Medicine.
