Visceral pain
Visceral Pain
Visceral pain (/vɪˈsɛrəl peɪn/) is a type of pain that originates from the internal organs of the body, also known as the viscera. The term "visceral" is derived from the Latin word "viscus," meaning "organ."
Definition
Visceral pain is a unique type of pain that is often diffuse, difficult to locate, and not well understood. It is typically experienced in the abdomen, pelvis, or chest and is caused by the activation of nociceptors in the organ's wall or capsule.
Causes
Visceral pain can be caused by a variety of conditions, including gastrointestinal disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and gynecological disorders. It can also be a symptom of certain cancers or the result of surgical procedures.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing visceral pain can be challenging due to its diffuse nature and the fact that it can be referred to other parts of the body. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and potentially, diagnostic tests such as imaging studies or endoscopy.
Treatment
Treatment for visceral pain often involves managing the underlying condition causing the pain. This can include medications, physical therapy, psychotherapy, and in some cases, surgery.
Related Terms
- Nociceptive pain: Pain that arises from actual or threatened damage to non-neural tissue and is due to the activation of nociceptors.
- Somatic pain: Pain that originates from the skin, muscles, bones, or joints.
- Referred pain: Pain perceived at a location other than the site of the painful stimulus.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Visceral pain
- Wikipedia's article - Visceral pain
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