Why Am I Sensitive to Pain: Exploring the Nervous Systems Role?

Update Date: 2024-06-13 Source: Network

Sensitivity of nociceptive nerves is a normal physiological response of the human body. It is a defensive reaction made when the body is stimulated by external factors. When the body is injured, nociceptive nerves respond promptly to protect the body from excessive harm. However, if the nociceptive nerves become overly sensitive, it is necessary to seek medical attention. Hospital neurologists can conduct tests to determine if the sensitivity is caused by a pathological reaction due to a disease.

Clinically, pain is often classified based on its location, source, and characteristics. It is important to note the distribution, nature, intensity, frequency, episodic or continuous nature, and causes of exacerbation or alleviation of the patient's pain.

1. Physiological factors: Some people have naturally sensitive nerves, resulting in intense pain from mild stimulation and a stronger reaction to external stimuli. In such cases, desensitization can be used to gradually adapt.

2. Pathological factors:

Various inflammations and bacterial infections can lead to increased nociceptive nerve sensitivity, resulting in symptoms such as tingling or hyperalgesia, or a stronger reaction to mild stimulation. Viral infections, such as the most common herpes zoster in peripheral nerve infections, can increase neural sensitivity, known as central sensitization, which occurs through stimulation of the neural network in the central nervous system.
Conditions such as cerebral hemorrhage, thalamic infarction, and thalamic hemorrhage can lead to glial proliferation within 2-3 months after the hemorrhage, resulting in nociceptive nerve sensitivity, usually on the contralateral side of the bodily injury.
Thalamic lesions can cause nociceptive nerve sensitivity, spontaneous pain, or various uncomfortable sensations, collectively known as thalamic pain.