Are you one of the 50 million Americans living with chronic pain? If so, you know all too well how it can disrupt your life. But, did you know some things can worsen your chronic pain and make it even more difficult to cope?
Here are six things that can make your chronic pain worse:
1. Smoking
Smoking is a well-known health hazard, but did you know it can also worsen chronic pain? Smoking not only irritates the lungs, but it can also contribute to inflammation. This can lead to increased pain for those suffering from peripheral neuropathy, arthritis, or fibromyalgia.
2. Lack of Sleep
Your body cannot mend itself adequately if you don’t get enough sleep. This can lead to an increase in pain levels, as well as fatigue. If you’re struggling to get a good night’s rest, talk to your doctor about ways to improve your sleep hygiene.
3. Poor Diet
What you eat can also affect your chronic pain. A poor diet high in processed foods and sugar can contribute to inflammation and worsening pain. Eating a healthy diet full of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce inflammation and ease pain levels.
4. Excessive Alcohol Intake
While moderate alcohol consumption is sometimes acceptable, excessive drinking can worsen chronic pain. The CDC defines excessive drinking as having eight or more drinks a week for women and fifteen or more for men.
When one drinks excessively, it can lead to dehydration and can cause muscle cramps and headaches. Alcoholism can also disrupt sleep, making your pain worse.
5. Not Asking For Help When You Need It
Chronic pain can be exhausting, both physically and mentally. It’s critical to request assistance when necessary, whether hiring a home health aide to help with chores or asking a friend to watch your kids for a few hours. Trying to do everything alone can lead to additional stress and worsen your chronic pain.
6. Avoiding Medical Appointments
While it may be tempting to skip your doctor’s appointments, it’s important to keep up with your medical care. Your pain management team can offer treatments and help improve your pain levels. Additionally, they can monitor your condition to ensure it’s not progressing.
Are You Ready to Regain Your Life?
At Neuropathy Treatment Clinics of Texas, we understand how chronic pain can disrupt your life. We offer a variety of treatments that can help you find relief, so you can get back to the things you love. Let our team help you get your life back! Contact us today by calling (972) 441-5634 or filling out our online form to learn more about our services.
