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Illness & Disability
Looking for pain relief
Pain can make you feel tired, crabby, and down. No one likes it, and having a hard time with pain does not make you weak. Pain can be a way for your body to let you know there is something wrong, that you need a different treatment, or even that you are getting better. No matter what kind of pain it is, you deserve to feel better.
Tell your doctor or nurse if you are in pain. Be sure to let them know:
Where it hurts - How strong the pain feels (try using a scale from one to ten to talk about your pain; use lower numbers for when it doesn't hurt as badly and higher numbers as the pain gets worse)
- What makes the pain worse
- What makes the pain better
Your doctor may give you medicine to help make the pain better. There are also other things you can do, in addition to taking medicine, to help make you feel better.
Tips for helping with your pain
Distraction. Try focusing on something besides your pain, such as a good book, listening to music, or taking a warm bath. Ignoring pain like this is called "distraction" and can help make you feel better.
Imagery. Some people find that imagery is a good way to control their pain. Imagery is creating pictures with your imagination. Try closing your eyes and thinking of yourself in a place that you love, such as the beach or your own backyard. Think about all of the sounds and smells of your special place, and come back to this place as often as you need comfort.
Other things you can do to help your pain include:
- Resting
- Using dim lighting
- Getting a massage
- Applying a cold or warm pack
- Wearing comfortable clothes
- Putting a damp washcloth on your forehead
- Breathing deeply
Content last updated June 2, 2007
