Kipuherkkyyttä

Kipuherkkyyttä is a Finnish term that translates to "pain sensitivity" or "hyperalgesia" in English. It refers to a condition where an individual experiences an exaggerated or prolonged response to painful stimuli. This means that even mild or normally non-painful sensations can be perceived as intensely painful, or a usual painful stimulus can cause significantly more discomfort than expected.

There are different types of pain sensitivity. Allodynia is a form of hyperalgesia where pain is caused by a stimulus that does not normally provoke pain, such as light touch. Another type is hyperalgesia, where the response to a painful stimulus is amplified. This can manifest in various ways, including increased pain intensity, a larger painful area, or pain that lasts longer than usual.

The underlying causes of pain sensitivity can be diverse. It can arise from damage to the peripheral nervous system (neuropathic pain), inflammation, or changes in the central nervous system's processing of pain signals. Conditions like fibromyalgia, migraines, and certain nerve injuries can be associated with heightened pain sensitivity.

Diagnosing pain sensitivity often involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and sometimes specific tests to assess pain thresholds and responses. Treatment aims to manage the underlying cause and alleviate the heightened pain perception, which can involve medications, physical therapy, and psychological support. Understanding pain sensitivity is crucial for effective pain management and improving the quality of life for those affected.