Pain

To scream or not to scream? That is the question.

By Annette Beach

It goes without saying pain is everywhere and I’m willing to bet, a daily occurrence in most lives! Whether it’s caused by an illness, a personal matter, stubbing a toe or mosquito bite, pain is a part of life!

Pain is the most common symptom of any form of arthritis and typically the reason for seeking medical attention. It’s the part of our disease we despise!

Reviewing past blogs, I was surprised to find the word “pain” is only in one of the titles, yet the subject can be found in almost every entry. Most will agree, there’s no shortage of pain when talking about arthritis!

In a recent blog titled, “Managing Pain,” I addressed pain by definition and shared a visual technique of how I taught myself to tolerate it on a daily basis as a means of avoiding medication. Last week, I wrote, “I’m good. How are you?” and explained my standard answer in an attempt to be courteous (but not necessarily the truth).

Today, I want to know, what is your natural reaction to pain? Do you express your pain or keep it to yourself? If it’s expressed, are you verbal? If so, do you use words or make bodily sounds? What is the volume of your expressions? Do you make gestures in the air or stomp your feet? Have you ever caused more pain to your body by expressing arthritis pain, such as stomping or punching? Do you react differently to everyday pain versus the pain caused by arthritis?

Over the years, I’ve created my own language when it comes to coping with daily pain. Those living in my house and who know me best have gotten used to my grunts and squeals. It’s such a norm that few react or ask if I’m OK. When I spend time with new people, they quickly learn to overlook my gestures and comments, often turning them into laughing matters.

A long time ago, I learned to express my pain out loud (when the timing is appropriate) rather than holding it in. I use the analogy for riding a roller coaster. You don’t have to scream when going down the big hill, but if you can, why not? Have you ever been on a roller coaster and not screamed? It completely changes the dynamics of the ride!

My expressions are not dramatic and they’re not intended to draw attention. They are solely meant for me as a means of coping. In fact, I probably express myself more when I’m alone than in the presence of others.

When arthritis pain comes on suddenly or surprises me while reaching or walking, I’ll let out a low, “ouch.” If the hit is intense, I often hold my breath until it’s past then release by making a loud exhale sound. And many times, I mutter, “It hurts, it hurts, it hurts,” repeating it several times as though I’m chasing it away. For some reason, I tend to feel better when acknowledging the pain than not.

Could there be a medical theory behind this or is it part of the craziness that accompanies a day in the life of arthritis?