21 Common Medical Conditions That Can Be Much, Much More Serious Than You Think

6.

“Having chronic pain. People just can’t imagine never having a break from being stuck with pain, and how it affects basically anything in daily life. Directly and indirectly. From systemic sleep deprivation to a full-blown depression and all sorts of other health risks.”

—Ortofun

“Agreed, never-ending pain, daily… and as you mentioned, all the depression, hopelessness, and more creep in over time. I have had severe Rheumatoid Arthritis since I was 12 years old and have had it for almost 30 years. The older you get, the more difficult it becomes to keep up with life as a whole. Can’t even tie my own shoelaces. Keep strong and all the best.”

—PampoenKoekie

“It affects everything: sleep, diet, daily routines, mental health.

Because I am in pain, I don’t want to move.

Because I don’t move, I get more pain. Activity means more pain. Inactivity means more pain. There is no winning.

Chronic pain causes severe fatigue.

Fatigue means less exercise. We don’t get better from fatigue if we don’t exercise. But too much exercise can also give us more fatigue.

Getting food means pain. Eating and digesting mean more fatigue. Food is as important as exercise. So, eating well is a must, if only we had the energy for it.

It is a battle with no end.

Depending on the reason for the pain, we can add some lovely side dishes like migraines, food intolerances, allergies, sensitivities, temperature dysregulation, sleep disorders, emotional dysregulation, social isolation, depression, anxiety, grief, and whatever else.

When we consider the side effects of the medications… well… May the odds be ever in your favor.”

—StrikeExcellent2970