Speaking the "language" of pain.
Pain is one of the most difficult experiences to describe. And because your doctor relies on your description when diagnosing your condition, it's important to be as specific as you can.
How much does it hurt?
Doctors will sometimes use a 0–10 scale or a set of faces that show
the emotions associated with levels of pain. Usually the left–hand
side of the scale is labeled "no pain," and the right–hand side of
the scale has a label such as "the worst pain I can imagine."
Different people will have different opinions about the severity of
their pain, and our experiences may change our definition of "the
worst pain I can imagine."
Here are some tools that can help you to describe your pain – and to
become a more active participant in your own health care.
Doctor Checklist
Print this checklist of possible discussion topics to help guide
your conversation with your doctor.
Pain Profiler
Use this tool to help you understand your pain – and clearly
communicate it to your doctor.
Symptom Tracker
Whether or not you have started a treatment plan, record your daily
activities to help your doctor track your pain and your progress.
