How can foods trigger pain?

Debra Fulghum Bruce PhD

Healthcare

There is new evidence that certain identifiable triggers can initiate pain in susceptible individuals. Just like chocolate may trigger a migraine or dust can cause your sinuses to swell and throb, some foods increase the inflammation, pain, and stiffening of the joints in those with osteoarthritis or inflammatory arthritis. For instance, if you suffer with gouty arthritis, a party weekend with heavy alcohol may trigger an attack complete with a painful, swollen ankle or foot.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Pain

Pain is your body telling you that you have hurt it. This is a good thing, important when you are injured. It can also help diagnose problems with your body. Sometimes pain continues long after it's necessary. Amputees report phantom pain in the legs or arms they no longer have. There are different kinds of pain, and describing the type is useful in diagnosis: recurring, constant, steady, knife-like, radiating, sharp, dull. Medicines that dull pain are analgesics. Those that kill all feeling are anesthetics.

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