Sometimes, in chronic pain, the pain-signaling neurons become hyperexcited and continue to fire despite the absence of the cause of injury. For example, with the herpes-zoster infection (shingles), the rash disappears, leaving no evidence of the virus in the bloodstream, but the damaged nerves continue to fire, causing continuous debilitating … Read More
For reasons yet to be fully understood, people with fibromyalgia feel more pain than normal. Fibromyalgia sufferers’ brains show activation patterns in pain processing areas when only mild pressure or heat is applied.[1] Researchers believe that part of what contributes to fibromyalgia is an imbalance of the neurotransmitter serotonin. This … Read More
The crushing pain, nausea, and light sensitivity of a migraine headache can wreak havoc on the lives of migraine sufferers. For many, the only treatment options are heavy-duty pharmaceuticals with many unpleasant side effects. And those don’t even work for everyone. But research is pointing to surprising melatonin benefits that … Read More
Exercise-associated muscle cramps (EAMC) are painful muscle spasms that occur during or immediately following a workout. They are spawned by an involuntary contraction of a muscle that will not relax. Muscle cramps typically start in the leg—often in the calf muscles (i.e. the dreaded Charley horse). But they also can … Read More
Herbs, relaxation techniques, and unique therapies can serve as effective natural pain killers to help you find relief from a variety of painful conditions. Learn about 8 of the best natural pain relievers below. Herbs for Natural Pain Relief There are a variety of plants that offer natural pain killers … Read More
Migraines are tricky; once they begin, it can be near impossible to get them to stop or go away. Many people have learned tricks, however, that help them to control their migraines. Using essential oils, placing an ice pack on the head or back of the neck, and massaging the … Read More
When it comes to managing your chronic pain, take a close look at your lifestyle. Diet, weight, and inflammation (three modifiable factors) are to blame for much of our chronic discomfort. Certain foods (sugar, processed meat, fried foods, and refined carbs) increase inflammation. Being overweight can have the same effect … Read More
Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop anywhere in the body. Ovarian cyst symptoms don’t affect all women who develop cysts on ovaries, and ovarian cysts can clear up without treatment. But for some women, ovarian cyst symptoms can lead to potentially serious complications. The main ovarian cyst symptoms include … Read More
Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums (gums are called “gingiva” and “itis” means inflammation). It is caused by bacteria. If you have gingivitis, your gums are likely red and swollen. They may bleed when you brush your teeth. Sometimes gums with gingivitis will be sore. Some people have gingivitis … Read More
Shingles—officially known as herpes zoster—is an infection of a nerve and the area of skin supplied by the nerve. It is caused by the varicella zoster virus, a virus in the herpes family that also causes chickenpox. After a person has chickenpox, some virus particles remain inactive in the nerve … Read More
