Listen
Print: What is chronic pain?
There are 2 types of pain: acute and chronic. Acute pain doesn't last long and usually goes away as your body heals. Chronic pain lasts at least 6 months after your body has healed. Sometimes, people who have chronic pain don't know what is causing it. Along with discomfort, chronic pain can cause low self-esteem, depression and anger. It can also interfere with your daily activities.
Next: Diagnosis & Tests
Source
Treatment of Nonmalignant Chronic Pain by DA Marcus, M.D. (American Family Physician March 01, 2000, http://www.aafp.org/afp/20000301/1331.html)
Written by familydoctor.org editorial staff
Reviewed/Updated: 11/10
Created: 03/00
