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Help My Hurt

ABCs of pain: D is for…

by Marijke Durning, RN on July 4th, 2008

diapers_nc 

Diapers! I just want to grab those little tushes….

Ok, so what does D stand for in the world of pain?

D is for:

Diabetic neuropathy: People who have had diabetes for a long time can develop the complication, diabetic neuropathy, that affects their nerves and causes great pain. The pain happens most often in the feet and toes, but can happen just about anywhere. The best way to keep this from happening is to maintain as good a blood sugar level as is possible.

Degenerative disc disease: This is a slow deterioration, loss of flexibility and function, of the discs found between the vertebrae in the spine.

Duragesic: A brand name of fentanyl, a controlled pain reliever (narcotic), given by a skin patch.

Demerol: Another controlled drug that relieves pain but it is usually only given for acute pain, such as just after surgery, rather than for problems with chronic pain.

Dowager’s hump: People who have degenerative disc disease or osteoarthritis, can develop what is called a dowager’s hump. This is the curve in the upper back, just below the neck, that makes someone look like they have a hunchback.

Decubitus ulcer: Also called a pressure sore or a bed sore. These sores are caused by not moving. When we’re healthy and able to move, we shift around in our chairs or in bed. If someone’s ability to move has been affected, they may stay too long in one position, causing a sore. At first, the sore doesn’t seem too bad - it may just be red and chafed, but these sores can get very deep, right down to the bone, if they’re not caught early enough.

Image: Newscom

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POSTED IN: Education

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