Pain Relief

What is pain?

Pain is your body’s natural warning signal that something is wrong. It can range from mild, short-term discomfort (acute pain) to persistent, long-lasting pain (chronic pain) that lasts weeks or longer. Pain can affect any part of the body and, if not managed properly, can significantly impact your quality of life.

Causes of pain

Common causes include:

• Headaches or migraines
• Sports injuries, strains, or sprains
• Period pain or cramps
• Arthritis or joint inflammation
• Back or neck pain
• Dental pain
• Viral or bacterial infections

Identifying the cause of pain is important to choosing the right treatment.

Symptoms of Pain

• Depending on the cause, you might experience:
• Dull, throbbing, or sharp pain
• Swelling or bruising
• Stiffness or limited movement
• Tingling or numbness
• Fever (with infections)

How to prevent pain

While you can’t prevent all pain, healthy habits can reduce your risk of injuries and chronic discomfort:

• Maintain good posture when sitting, standing, or lifting.
• Exercise regularly to keep muscles strong and flexible.
• Warm up before and cool down after physical activity.
• Use ergonomic chairs, desks, or equipment to support your back and neck.
• Manage stress, which can contribute to tension headaches and muscle pain.

What treatments are available for pain?

The right treatment depends on the cause, severity, and type of pain. Options include:

• Paracetamol – effective for mild to moderate pain, including headaches, toothaches, and fever.
• Ibuprofen & other NSAIDs – reduce pain and inflammation; great for muscle or joint pain (take with food).
• Topical gels or creams – e.g., Ibuprofen Gel, applied directly to sore areas for targeted relief without affecting the whole body.
• Combination medicines – for example, pain relief plus a decongestant for sinus-related headaches.
• Non-medicine options – heat or cold packs, gentle stretching, and relaxation techniques can help manage some types of pain.

Side effects of painkillers

Over-the-counter painkillers are generally safe when taken as directed, but they can cause side effects such as:

• Stomach irritation or ulcers (NSAIDs)
• Allergic reactions
• Increased risk of bleeding (aspirin)
• Liver damage (if paracetamol is taken in excessive doses)

Always read the patient information leaflet and consult a pharmacist if you have existing medical conditions or take other medications.

When to see a doctor about pain

Seek medical advice immediately if you experience:

• Severe or worsening pain
• Chest pain, difficulty breathing, or weakness
• Pain accompanied by fever, swelling, or redness
• Sudden, intense headaches or vision problems
• Pain after an injury that doesn’t improve with rest or OTC treatment

Can I buy pain relief treatments online?

Yes! You can order pain relief medicines online from Click Pharmacy. We deliver quickly across the UK so you can start feeling better as soon as possible.