Prolonged, Burning Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

What is Prolonged, Burning Pain?

Prolonged, burning pain is a type of discomfort often associated with nerve damage or irritation. It can occur due to various medical conditions, such as neuropathy, inflammation, or certain chronic diseases, and is characterized by a persistent, intense burning sensation in the affected area.

Causes of Prolonged, Burning Pain

• Neuropathy. Damage to the nerves, such as in diabetic neuropathy or post-herpetic neuralgia, often causes burning pain.
• Chronic Inflammatory Conditions. Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus can cause prolonged burning sensations as a result of systemic inflammation.
• Infections. Certain infections, such as shingles, can cause burning pain due to nerve involvement.
• Spinal Disorders. Problems with the spine, such as a herniated disc, can lead to nerve compression, resulting in burning pain.
• Other Causes. Other underlying conditions, including vitamin deficiencies or exposure to toxins, may also contribute to prolonged burning pain.

Symptoms

• Persistent burning or tingling sensation in the affected area.
• Pain that intensifies with touch or movement.
• Accompanying symptoms such as numbness, weakness, or a sensation of coldness in the area.

Treatment

• Medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs, nerve pain medications, or anticonvulsants to manage the pain.
• Physical therapy or exercises to relieve pressure on nerves or muscles causing the pain.
• In some cases, nerve blocks or other medical procedures may be required to control the pain.