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Treatment
Pain can be treated with drugs or with nondrug methods. The choice of treatment will depend on the hype of pain, and should be decided by a physician.
In some cases, pain can be relieved or treated with heat or cold applications. Warmth (from a heating pad or hot water bottle) relaxes muscles and promotes blood circulation, and can be used to treat muscle tension and cramps. Cold applications (like ice packs) can help treat inflammation.
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The most common drugs for treating pain are analgesics. These are anti-inflammatory drugs that make up the first line of defense for treating pain release. Analgesics are recommended in cases of mild or moderate pain. The most widely used is analgesic is acetylsalicylic acid, or aspirin. Preparations containing this active ingredient are able to block pain because they inhibit the production of prostaglandins (pain-triggering hormones.).
For chronic pain, nondrug methods can be helpful. The complementary and alternative therapies most often indicated are massage, relaxation and breathing exercises. Acupuncture can also be effective in treating certain forms of pain.
Prevention
Looking at the big picture is one way to view pain prevention. For each of us, good health should be considered as a whole - incorporating aspects of physical and emotional well-being. Pain prevention can often be achieved by leading a healthy lifestyle, eating a balanced diet and getting enough sleep.
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