- Causes and side effects of acute pain

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Causes and side effects of acute pain

Acute pain, which has a short, relatively severe course, is the most common reason that people seek medical care. It can arise from musculoskeletal disorders, gastrointestinal disorders, cardiovascular disorders, cuts, burns, fractures, sprains, trauma, childbirth, surgery, medical procedures, or acute disease states.

Acute pain is a complex response to tissue trauma that serves as a warning against further injury. It is frequently accompanied by anxiety and by autonomic nervous system responses, such as the withdrawal reflex. Sympathetic nervous system responses are also activated including dilated pupils, increased heart rate, increased respiration, and increased blood pressure.

Acute pain normally resolves when the underlying tissue injury heals, but it can progress to chronic pain if it is not resolved quickly. The sympathetic nervous system stress hormone response caused by acute pain can have adverse effects that may induce development of chronic pain.

Review Date: 6/17/2024
Reviewed By: C. Benjamin Ma, MD, Professor, Chief, Sports Medicine and Shoulder Service, UCSF Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, San Francisco, CA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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