What is pain?

Pain is an uncomfortable feeling when there is damage or something wrong happening with your body. Pain is messaged through the body to the brain to determine how bad the pain is, what kind of pain it is, and what you need to do about it. This is why everyone experiences pain differently. 

Sometimes when pain occurs the body activates the immune system. This happens so that any damaged tissue can be repaired and any potential infection can be stopped. This is why you may notice swelling and redness. 

Pain often includes an emotional reaction as well as physical. It is common to experience fear, sadness, nausea, and sleeplessness when in pain or anticipating pain. Take note of how you experience pain. Does it make you tired or lose sleep? Does it make you feel nauseous or lose your appetite?