Understanding the science of it

Over the years we have had some hardcore scientific work done in the field. Pain differs in type, intensity, tolerance. It is almost as if it is tailor-made, unique. This uniqueness if I may say so is a combination of genetics, personality, emotion, environment, and coping mechanisms(the capsule). So let us start by understanding what these scientific pillars stand for.

In order to perceive something, we need a feeling/ an impulse to be generated, transmitted, and then received. Generation is by the unpleasant sensation, transmission by the nerves and it is received by Receptors. Genetics plays a role in the type and number of receptors. They are the mathematical formulae that are unique to you. It cannot be tampered with but it can be influenced. And that influence leads to evolution. There are numerous receptors that influence how an individual reacts to pain. It explains some individuals being sensitive to pain or having fear of pain. The experience of pain is magnified by multitudes in these individuals. Also, the presence of these can give rise to constant reminders that open the doors for chronic pain.

The receptors are present throughout the body. In muscle, body fat, even parts of the immune system. The body type depends on genetics. Muscular individuals can be more prone to pains originating from repeated stress injury or strains. Pains due to autoimmune disorders are a different topic altogether. Body fat is rich in certain kinds of receptors that explain easy fatigue leading to cramps and aches. There is another catch here. The effect of a medication/drug also depends on these receptors. A drug that helps X may not show the same effect on Y. In short, receptors not only affect pain but also the drugs that act on this pain. Similarly, it also affects the time a medication takes to act and also the rate and which it is used up by the body(metabolism). Metabolism of a drug does play a key role in finding the medication that will be most useful for relieving the pain. It is imperative that we remember this.

An understanding of how our body reacts to pain and medication is needed for an informed decision. Loopholes can be found at all levels. Despite so much knowledge and understanding, the pain remains an enigma. This is because the brain and its receptors are also influenced by other factors. Our being in pain depends on other factors as mentioned earlier. As we dig in we shall talk about all these factors and more.