Chronic Pain: Symptoms

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Symptoms

The symptoms of chronic pain include:

• Pain that does not go away as expected after an illness or injury.
• Pain that may be described as shooting, burning, aching, or electrical.
• Discomfort, soreness, tightness, or stiffness.

Pain can lead to other problems, such as:

• Fatigue, which can cause impatience and a loss of motivation.
• Sleeplessness, often because the pain keeps you awake during the night.
• Withdrawal from activity and an increased need to rest.
• A weakened immune system, leading to frequent infections or illness.
• Depression, which is common and can make your pain worse.
• Other mood changes, such as hopelessness, fear, irritability, anxiety, and stress.
• Disability, which may include not being able to go to work or school or perform other daily activities.

Last updated:	February 22, 2007
Author:	Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Nancy Greenwald, MD - Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC