Schmerzempfindlichkeit

Schmerzempfindlichkeit, also known as hyperalgesia, refers to an increased sensitivity to pain. This condition can manifest in various ways, including experiencing pain from stimuli that are typically not painful, or experiencing more intense pain than expected from a painful stimulus. It is a complex phenomenon that can arise from damage to the nervous system, inflammation, or certain medical conditions.

There are two main types of schmerzempfindlichkeit. Primary hyperalgesia occurs at the site of injury or inflammation, where the affected area becomes more responsive to pain. Secondary hyperalgesia, on the other hand, refers to the spread of increased pain sensitivity to surrounding areas not directly affected by the initial insult. This can happen as the nervous system becomes sensitized.

The causes of schmerzempfindlichkeit are diverse and can include nerve damage from injury or surgery, chronic inflammatory conditions like arthritis, neuropathic pain conditions such as diabetic neuropathy or post-herpetic neuralgia, and even psychological factors like anxiety or depression can play a role in modulating pain perception. In some cases, the exact cause may remain unclear.

Diagnosis typically involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and sometimes further investigations like nerve conduction studies or imaging to identify any underlying causes. Treatment strategies aim to manage the pain and address the root cause if identifiable. This may involve pain medications, anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy, or other specialized interventions depending on the specific situation. Managing schmerzempfindlichkeit often requires a multidisciplinary approach.