Understanding persistent pain

Size: px
Start display at page:

Download "Understanding persistent pain"

Transcription

1 Understanding persistent pain For patients, families and caregivers Read this brochure to learn more about: why you feel pain how pain works in your body ways to manage it Why do I feel pain? It s normal to have pain in the first days or weeks after an injury or health change. Pain is a healthy part of how your body protects you. It is there to get you to change what you do so that you stay safe. For many people, pain goes away slowly as their body heals. But, for many other people, pain can go on even after the usual healing time. Pain that lasts a long time is called persistent pain and there are many reasons why it can happen. Changes to the nervous system (brain, spinal cord, and nerves) are always involved. Please visit the UHN Patient Education website for more health information: University Health Network. All rights reserved. This information is to be used for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for non-commercial personal use only. Authors: Bronwen Moore, Cara Kircher, Bonnie Cai-Duarte, Sarah Sheffe and the LEAP Service Created: 10/2017 Form: D-8652

2 Am I alone? No. Lots of people live with pain. For example: Out of every 100 people, about 20 live with persistent pain. Out of every 100 people who have health problems that affect the nervous system, people live with persistent pain. Am I just imagining my pain? No. You are the expert on how you feel. You are not causing the pain yourself. But, pain can affect how you think and feel. What you think and feel can also affect pain. This happens because everything we feel, including pain, is processed in the brain. Pain signals go to many parts of the brain, including the parts that make sense of what we think and feel. How does pain work? Pain signals go to many parts of the brain. Pain signals travel through your nerves, up your spinal cord, to many parts of your brain. Your brain decides what these signals mean. When some part of your nervous system is injured, it may send confusing messages to your brain. Your brain may interpret these as pain. For example: You may continue to feel pain even when there is no real danger. A change to one area of your nervous system can cause pain in a different part of your body. For example, a neck injury can cause arm pain. 2

3 How long will it last? It is hard to predict how long pain will last. This can be very frustrating! For many people, pain comes and goes. There are times when the pain is well managed but also times when the pain is stronger and calls for more care. There are things you can do to manage the pain you feel. Is taking medicine my only choice? No. Taking medicine can be helpful. But finding the right medicine to control your pain can take time and patience. There are many other things you can do to manage your pain yourself. What else can I do to manage my pain? There are many coping skills and lifestyle changes that can help you manage your pain. Here are a few of the most important ideas: Find ways to escape from the pain Soothe the pain with heat or cold. Find a comfortable position, and change positions often. Gently stretch and massage a tense area. Distract yourself with a hobby, game, music or book. Picture a safe and soothing scene in your mind (for example, a beach, or getting a massage). 3

4 Calm your mind and body Use techniques to help you relax such as deep breathing, body scan, or meditation. Take short rest breaks often. This works better than taking long breaks. Control your breathing. Take slow breaths, and imagine breathing in and out from the painful area. Think calming thoughts (for example, say to yourself, It s okay that the pain is here for now, I don t have to like the pain, but I can handle it, This will get better, I can do this ) Talk to someone who can support you like a friend, family member, or therapist. Challenge the pain with gentle activity Be creative. Look for new ways to do things. Keep moving and stretching, but do it gently and pay attention to what you are doing. Go back to doing activities very gradually. Set small goals and plan how to get there. Track your progress. For example, write notes in a journal or calendar. Be patient with yourself. Learn about how pain works This can help you to feel less afraid of the pain and live a more active life. There are many great books, videos and websites that talk about pain. If you feel ready, consider signing up for a pain self-management course. Ask your therapist for a list of courses. 4

5 Here are some resources about pain to get you started: Videos on YouTube Go to and search using these titles: Lorimer Moseley Why Things Hurt Hunter Medicare Local Understanding Pain: What to do about it in less than 5 minutes Cara Kircher Body scan, Breathing space Books Managing pain before it manages you by M. Caudill (2016) The Brain s Way of Healing by Norman Doidge, M.D. (2015) Websites Canadian Institute for the Relief of Pain and Disability: Pain.com : A good saying to remember is: Pain changes everything and everything changes pain! 5

Using S.E.A.T.S. to help with delirium

Using S.E.A.T.S. to help with delirium Using S.E.A.T.S. to help with delirium UHN Information for families, friends and caregivers of patients who experience delirium Read this information to learn more about: what delirium is what S.E.A.T.S.

More information

How to manage your pain

How to manage your pain How to manage your pain UHN Information for patients and families Read this booklet to learn about: Why it is important to manage pain Options to help manage it Who to talk to if you feel pain Patient

More information

Managing Psychosocial and Family Distress after Cancer Treatment

Managing Psychosocial and Family Distress after Cancer Treatment Managing Psychosocial and Family Distress after Cancer Treatment Information for cancer survivors Read this pamphlet to learn: What psychosocial distress is What causes distress What you can do Where to

More information

Pain Management Services

Pain Management Services Pain Management Services UHN Information for patients and families Read this booklet to learn about: Who we are What we do What to expect Patient Education Improving health through education Why is it

More information

Managing Your Pain with Oral Patient Controlled Analgesia (Oral PCA)

Managing Your Pain with Oral Patient Controlled Analgesia (Oral PCA) Managing Your Pain with Oral Patient Controlled Analgesia (Oral PCA) UHN Information for patients and families Read this resource to learn: What it is Why it is important How it works Possible side effects

More information

Relaxing Exercises to Relieve Stress

Relaxing Exercises to Relieve Stress Relaxing Exercises to Relieve Stress UHN For patients and families Read this pamphlet to learn ways to relax to help you manage stress and lower anxiety. Ways to relax include: deep breathing relaxing

More information

What to expect in the last days and hours of life in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU)

What to expect in the last days and hours of life in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) What to expect in the last days and hours of life in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Information for patients and caregivers Please visit the UHN Patient Education website for more health information: www.uhnpatienteducation.ca

More information

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) UHN Information for patients and families Read this booklet to learn: What ECT is and how it works How to prepare for the treatment What you can expect Some side effects

More information

Diabetic Ketoacidosis

Diabetic Ketoacidosis Diabetic Ketoacidosis For family, friends and caregivers of a patient with diabetic ketoacidosis in the Medical Surgical Intensive Care Unit (MSICU) This brochure will give you more information about:

More information

ARTHRITIS ACTION FACTSHEETS

ARTHRITIS ACTION FACTSHEETS LAST REVIEW: MARCH 2017 COPYRIGHT OF ARTHRITIS ACTION PAIN MANAGEMENT Sometimes the cause of pain such as a broken bone is obvious. Other times the cause is less clear, especially if pain is in areas that

More information

Relaxation Techniques

Relaxation Techniques Relaxation is needed for good health. It gives your body and mind a chance to rest and recover from high-stress situations. Your heart rate slows down, blood pressure decreases and muscles relax. Relaxation

More information

University Staff Counselling Service

University Staff Counselling Service University Staff Counselling Service Anxiety and Panic What is anxiety? Anxiety is a normal emotional and physiological response to feeling threatened, ranging from mild uneasiness and worry to severe

More information

Managing persistent pain

Managing persistent pain Managing persistent pain Information for patients This leaflet has been produced to help you understand pain and why it persists. It also explores ways that may help you manage persistent pain. 1 What

More information

tain PHow o Manage Your This patient guide will help you understand:

tain PHow o Manage Your This patient guide will help you understand: tain PHow o Manage Your This patient guide will help you understand: What is cancer-related pain? pg 2 What causes cancer-related pain? pg 3 What can I do to manage my pain? pg 4 When should I talk to

More information

RELAXATION EXERCISES

RELAXATION EXERCISES RELAXATION EXERCISES Relaxation technique 1: Breathing meditation for stress relief With its focus on full, cleansing breaths, deep breathing is a simple, yet powerful, relaxation technique. It s easy

More information

Coach on Call. Please give me a call if you have more questions about this or other topics.

Coach on Call. Please give me a call if you have more questions about this or other topics. Coach on Call It was great to talk with you. Thank you for your interest in. I hope you find this tip sheet helpful. Please give me a call if you have more questions about this or other topics. As your

More information

Your Journey to Living Well with Pain

Your Journey to Living Well with Pain Ten Footsteps Your Journey to Living Well with Pain Learning how to manage your pain is a journey. Like any journey, it takes time and everyone s experience is different. We know from people living with

More information

SHARED EXPERIENCES. Suggestions for living well with Alzheimer s disease

SHARED EXPERIENCES. Suggestions for living well with Alzheimer s disease SHARED EXPERIENCES Suggestions for living well with Alzheimer s disease The Alzheimer Society would like to thank all the people with Alzheimer s disease whose photos and comments appear in this booklet.

More information

The Hemodialysis Exercise Program

The Hemodialysis Exercise Program The Hemodialysis Exercise Program Information for patients and families Read this information to learn: how the exercise program can help how to join the program what to expect tips to help you succeed

More information

Acute Respiratory Failure

Acute Respiratory Failure Acute Respiratory Failure For family, friends and caregivers of a patient with acute respiratory failure in the Medical Surgical Intensive Care Unit (MSICU) This brochure will give you more information

More information

Coach on Call. Letting Go of Stress. A healthier life is on the line for you! How Does Stress Affect Me?

Coach on Call. Letting Go of Stress. A healthier life is on the line for you! How Does Stress Affect Me? Coach on Call How Does Stress Affect Me? Over time, stress can affect the way you feel, think, and act. You need some time when you are free of stress. You need ways to get relief from stress. Without

More information

A Guide to Help New Mothers Stay Smoke-Free

A Guide to Help New Mothers Stay Smoke-Free A Guide to Help New Mothers Stay Smoke-Free 1 Welcome to motherhood! You have just been through a life-changing experience pregnancy and child birth. Having a plan to stay smoke-free is an important step.

More information

Cancer-Related Brain Fog

Cancer-Related Brain Fog Cancer-Related Brain Fog Princess Margaret Information for cancer patients and caregivers about cancer-related brain fog Also called Chemo-Fog, Chemo-Brain, or Cancer-Related Cognitive Dysfunction Please

More information

keep track of other information like warning discuss with your doctor, and numbers of signs for relapse, things you want to

keep track of other information like warning discuss with your doctor, and numbers of signs for relapse, things you want to Helping you set your brain free from psychosis. www.heretohelp.bc.ca This book was written by Sophia Kelly and the BC Schizophrenia Society, for the BC Partners for Mental Health and Addictions Information.

More information

Pain Control After Surgery. Patient Information

Pain Control After Surgery. Patient Information Pain Control After Surgery Patient Information What is Pain? Pain is an uncomfortable feeling that tells you something may be wrong in your body. Pain is your body s way of sending a warning to your brain.

More information

POST-OP PAIN MANAGEMENT

POST-OP PAIN MANAGEMENT POST-OP PAIN MANAGEMENT You re Part of the Team Pain Management After Surgery Having a procedure or surgery to address a health issue can result in post-op (postoperative) pain. This pain can and should

More information

Concussion or Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

Concussion or Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Concussion or Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Concussion or Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Table of Contents What is concussion... 2 Causes... 3 Symptoms..3-4 When to get treatment...4-5 Daily activities. 5 Return

More information

Attention and Concentration Problems Following Traumatic Brain Injury. Patient Information Booklet. Talis Consulting Limited

Attention and Concentration Problems Following Traumatic Brain Injury. Patient Information Booklet. Talis Consulting Limited Attention and Concentration Problems Following Traumatic Brain Injury Patient Information Booklet Talis Consulting Limited What are Attention and Concentration? Attention and concentration are two skills

More information

Take Charge of Your Pain Program: Patient Booklet

Take Charge of Your Pain Program: Patient Booklet Take Charge of Your Pain Program: Patient Booklet TABLE OF CONTENTS ABOUT THIS BOOKLET... 3 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT PAIN... 4 Pain Gate... 6 BECOMING MORE ACTIVE... 7 RELAXATION... 8 DEEP BREATHING... 9 IMAGERY...

More information

Managing Your Pain After Day Surgery

Managing Your Pain After Day Surgery Managing Your Pain After Day Surgery Information for patients and families UHN Read this information to learn why it s important to manage your pain how to control your pain when you get home side effects

More information

Controlling Worries and Habits

Controlling Worries and Habits THINK GOOD FEEL GOOD Controlling Worries and Habits We often have obsessional thoughts that go round and round in our heads. Sometimes these thoughts keep happening and are about worrying things like germs,

More information

Lee's Martial Arts. The Five Principles. Principle #1: Preventive Defense. Principle #2: Awareness

Lee's Martial Arts. The Five Principles. Principle #1: Preventive Defense. Principle #2: Awareness The Five Principles Principle #1: Preventive Defense Preventive Defense is to always respect. Do not offend anyone verbally or physically to cause a confrontation. Respect Rule 1: Watch what you think,

More information

Pulmonary Hypertension

Pulmonary Hypertension Pulmonary Hypertension For family, friends and caregivers of a patient with pulmonary hypertension in the Medical Surgical Intensive Care Unit (MSICU) This brochure will give you more information about:

More information

Chronic Pain. PAIN Helps children learn about the world and what is physically safe.

Chronic Pain. PAIN Helps children learn about the world and what is physically safe. PART 1 WHAT IS PAIN? Does pain have a purpose? Chronic Pain Pain is normally the body s natural way of signalling something is wrong. It therefore serves a useful purpose when you are injured. Some people

More information

Priapism and Sickle Cell Disease

Priapism and Sickle Cell Disease Priapism and Sickle Cell Disease Information for patients with sickle cell disease Read this brochure to learn about: What causes priapism What treatments can help Who to contact for more information Please

More information

Pain Notebook NAME PHONE. Three Hole Punch Here Three Hole Punch Here. Global Pain Initiative 2018 Ver 1.0

Pain Notebook NAME  PHONE. Three Hole Punch Here Three Hole Punch Here. Global Pain Initiative 2018 Ver 1.0 Pain Notebook Three Hole Punch Here Three Hole Punch Here NAME EMAIL PHONE Global Pain Initiative 2018 Ver 1.0 What is pain? Pain is a bad sensation that tells you something is wrong. Pain falls into two

More information

Exercising with Persistent Pain

Exercising with Persistent Pain Exercising with Persistent Pain Why You Feel Pain When you are injured, your mind and body react. They protect the weak part of your body, and you feel pain when you try to use it. This protection is important

More information

Modified Yoga helps you recover from heart surgery

Modified Yoga helps you recover from heart surgery MY Program UHN Modified Yoga helps you recover from heart surgery Recovering from heart surgery challenges your body and mind. Use this booklet to guide you through your modified yoga routine each day.

More information

and breathing Relaxation techniques East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust Patient Information Series PI 83 a patient s guide

and breathing Relaxation techniques East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust Patient Information Series PI 83 a patient s guide Relaxation and breathing techniques Patient Information Series PI 83 East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust 2 a patient s guide Relaxation and breathing techniques Contents Introduction 4 When and where

More information

How to use movement and graded exposure to reduce pain. Jordan Miller, MSc PT

How to use movement and graded exposure to reduce pain. Jordan Miller, MSc PT How to use movement and graded exposure to reduce pain Jordan Miller, MSc PT McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario For Webinar Series: Chronic Pain Improving Life While Living It We acknowledge the financial

More information

Multiple Sclerosis. What is multiple sclerosis? What is the cause? What are the symptoms?

Multiple Sclerosis. What is multiple sclerosis? What is the cause? What are the symptoms? What is multiple sclerosis? Multiple Sclerosis Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord). Many people with multiple sclerosis are only mildly affected

More information

For family, friends and caregivers of a patient with kidney failure in the Medical Surgical Intensive Care Unit (MSICU)

For family, friends and caregivers of a patient with kidney failure in the Medical Surgical Intensive Care Unit (MSICU) Form: D-8711 Kidney Failure For family, friends and caregivers of a patient with kidney failure in the Medical Surgical Intensive Care Unit (MSICU) This brochure will give you more information about: The

More information

Lesson 1: Lesson 2: Lesson 3: Lesson 4: Lesson 5: Lesson 6: Lesson 7: Lesson 8: Lesson 9: Lesson 10: Lesson 11: Lesson 12: Lesson 13: Lesson 14:

Lesson 1: Lesson 2: Lesson 3: Lesson 4: Lesson 5: Lesson 6: Lesson 7: Lesson 8: Lesson 9: Lesson 10: Lesson 11: Lesson 12: Lesson 13: Lesson 14: INTRODUCTION...4 ASSESS TO ASSIST...7 Pre and Post SOCIAL SKILLS ASSESSMENT...8 Section 1: KNOWING MYSELF FIRST...10 Lesson 1: Give Yourself a Hand!...11 Lesson 2: I m In Charge of My Feelings...15 Lesson

More information

HANDOUTS FOR MODULE 7: TRAUMA TREATMENT. HANDOUT 55: COMMON REACTIONS CHECKLIST FOR KIDS (under 10 years)

HANDOUTS FOR MODULE 7: TRAUMA TREATMENT. HANDOUT 55: COMMON REACTIONS CHECKLIST FOR KIDS (under 10 years) HANDOUTS FOR MODULE 7: TRAUMA TREATMENT PARENT SESSION 1 HANDOUT 52: COMMON REACTIONS TO TRAUMA AND STRESS HANDOUT 53: MY CHILD S TRAUMA HISTORY CHILD SESSION 1 HANDOUT 54: PREVALENCE GRAPHICS HANDOUT

More information

5 Minute Strategies to Support Healthy Treatment and Recovery

5 Minute Strategies to Support Healthy Treatment and Recovery HPW-000030 TAKE FIVE 5 Minute Strategies to Support Healthy Treatment and Recovery Below you will find quick strategies, each related to one of 15 different moods commonly experienced by people coping

More information

Coping with Cancer. Patient Education Social Work and Care Coordination Cancer Programs. Feeling in Control

Coping with Cancer. Patient Education Social Work and Care Coordination Cancer Programs. Feeling in Control Patient Education Coping with Cancer Many patients find that their first challenge is to feel in control of life again. These resources and tips may help. You can do it! Most people do not expect a serious

More information

Session 7: Introduction to Pleasant Events and your Mood

Session 7: Introduction to Pleasant Events and your Mood Session 7: Introduction to Pleasant Events and your Mood Session Plan 1. Review of Planning for the Future 2. How Events Affect Your Mood 3. How to Identify Pleasant Events 4. Creating a List of Pleasant

More information

SESSION TOOLS LEARNING COPING SKILLS

SESSION TOOLS LEARNING COPING SKILLS SESSION 6 LEARNING COPING SKILLS SESSION TOOLS Handout 6.1: The Anxiety Thermometer Handout 6.2: Problematic Coping Responses Handout 6.3: Developing a Personal Coping Strategy Handout 6.4: Instructions

More information

Smoking It s never too late to quit

Smoking It s never too late to quit Smoking It s never too late to quit Patient Education Improving Health Through Education Making a change for your health Choosing a healthy lifestyle is the best thing you can do to protect your health

More information

Taking Care of Your Back

Taking Care of Your Back Taking Care of Your Back Most people will feel back pain at some point in their lives, but not all back pain is the same for everyone. The good news is, most low back pain improves without any treatment

More information

Kewaunee Public Library Presents:

Kewaunee Public Library Presents: Kewaunee Public Library Presents: What is stress? Stress is not necessarily a bad thing Without stress, humankind wouldn t have survived Yeah. Okay. Stress is primarily a physical response. When stressed,

More information

Mental Toughness. 1. Ability to rebound Bouncing back from set-backs and mistakes. 2. Ability to handle pressure Staying calm in the clutch.

Mental Toughness. 1. Ability to rebound Bouncing back from set-backs and mistakes. 2. Ability to handle pressure Staying calm in the clutch. Mental Toughness 1. Ability to rebound Bouncing back from set-backs and mistakes. 2. Ability to handle pressure Staying calm in the clutch. 3. Ability to concentrate Focus on what s important and block

More information

PATIENT INFORMATION Chronic Pain Self-Management Relaxation

PATIENT INFORMATION Chronic Pain Self-Management Relaxation PATIENT INFORMATION Chronic Pain Self-Management Relaxation Stress and the benefits of relaxation Stress is often spoken of in very negative terms but we all need a certain level of stress to function

More information

Information on ADHD for Children, Question and Answer - long version

Information on ADHD for Children, Question and Answer - long version Information on ADHD for Children, Question and Answer - long version What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD? People with ADHD have brains that may function a little differently in some

More information

For family, friends and caregivers of a patient with pneumonia in the Medical Surgical Intensive Care Unit (MSICU)

For family, friends and caregivers of a patient with pneumonia in the Medical Surgical Intensive Care Unit (MSICU) Form: D-5206 Pneumonia For family, friends and caregivers of a patient with pneumonia in the Medical Surgical Intensive Care Unit (MSICU) This brochure will give you more information about: The causes

More information

Slide Transcription for Coping Skills Seminar: Managing Emotions

Slide Transcription for Coping Skills Seminar: Managing Emotions Slide Transcription for Coping Skills Seminar: Managing Emotions Coping Skills Seminar Managing Emotions Counselling & Psychological Services University of Waterloo Disclaimer The information on the University

More information

BREATHE DEEP EXERCISE 1: PAUSE AFTER READING EACH PHRASE ALOUD

BREATHE DEEP EXERCISE 1: PAUSE AFTER READING EACH PHRASE ALOUD What is it? Focus 5 is a set of exercises that provides you with skills to minimize distraction and develop greater focus for learning. Each exercise can be done in under five minutes. Why do Focus 5 exercises?

More information

University Health Network (UHN) Memory Clinic

University Health Network (UHN) Memory Clinic University Health Network (UHN) Memory Clinic Information for people worried about changes in their memory, thinking or personality, or changes in someone they care about Learn about: the signs of brain

More information

Managing Sleep Problems after Cancer

Managing Sleep Problems after Cancer Managing Sleep Problems after Cancer For cancer survivors Read this resource to learn about: What a sleep problem is What causes it What you can do to improve your sleep When to talk to your doctor Please

More information

GRIEVING A SUICIDE LOSS

GRIEVING A SUICIDE LOSS GRIEVING A SUICIDE LOSS WHAT IS SUICIDE LOSS GRIEF? Grief is grief (also called bereavement), but when it involves a suicide death many people react differently than with, for example, a death resulting

More information

Self-Injury. What is it? How do I get help? Adapted from Signs of Self-Injury Program

Self-Injury. What is it? How do I get help? Adapted from Signs of Self-Injury Program Self-Injury What is it? How do I get help? Adapted from Signs of Self-Injury Program Why are we doing this? *Prevention of self-injury-it s happening so why ignore it? *Statistics show high prevalence

More information

The Recovery Journey after a PICU admission

The Recovery Journey after a PICU admission The Recovery Journey after a PICU admission A guide for families Introduction This booklet has been written for parents and young people who have experienced a Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) admission.

More information

Understanding bone metastases and XGEVA

Understanding bone metastases and XGEVA Understanding bone metastases and XGEVA Contents About bone metastases 3 About XGEVA 5 Dealing with common side effects of XGEVA 8 FAs about living with bone metastases 9 Notes 10 About bone metastases

More information

Concussion & You. A Handbook for Parents and Kids DEVELOPED BY CONCUSSION EXPERTS AT HOLLAND BLOORVIEW KIDS REHABILITATION HOSPITAL

Concussion & You. A Handbook for Parents and Kids DEVELOPED BY CONCUSSION EXPERTS AT HOLLAND BLOORVIEW KIDS REHABILITATION HOSPITAL Concussion & You A Handbook for Parents and Kids DEVELOPED BY CONCUSSION EXPERTS AT HOLLAND BLOORVIEW KIDS REHABILITATION HOSPITAL Trusted experts in youth concussion www.hollandbloorview.ca/concussion

More information

Preparing for your Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Preparing for your Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Preparing for your Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) For patients at the Rapid Diagnostic Centre Read this resource to learn: How to prepare What to expect during an MRI What questions to ask your doctor

More information

Diabetic Ketoacidosis

Diabetic Ketoacidosis Form: D-8708 Diabetic Ketoacidosis For family, friends and caregivers of a patient with diabetic ketoacidosis in the Medical Surgical Intensive Care Unit (MSICU) This brochure will give you more information

More information

Preparing for your Stereotactic Core Biopsy

Preparing for your Stereotactic Core Biopsy Preparing for your Stereotactic Core Biopsy For patients at the Rapid Diagnostic Centre Gattuso Rapid Diagnostic Centre Princess Margaret Cancer Centre 3rd floor, Breast Imaging 610 University Avenue Toronto,

More information

For family, friends and caregivers of a patient with pancreatitis in the Medical Surgical Intensive Care Unit (MSICU)

For family, friends and caregivers of a patient with pancreatitis in the Medical Surgical Intensive Care Unit (MSICU) Form: D-8705 Pancreatitis For family, friends and caregivers of a patient with pancreatitis in the Medical Surgical Intensive Care Unit (MSICU) This brochure will give you more information about: The causes

More information

Deep breathing for stress relief

Deep breathing for stress relief Deep breathing for stress relief With its focus on full, cleansing breaths, deep breathing is a simple, yet powerful, relaxation technique. It s easy to learn, can be practiced almost anywhere, and provides

More information

Patient & Family Guide. Anxiety.

Patient & Family Guide. Anxiety. Patient & Family Guide 2018 Anxiety www.nscancercare.ca Anxiety Anxiety can have a lot of names--nervouness, worry, uneasiness, or fear. Most people dealing with cancer feel some anxiety during their journey

More information

Explaining. pain. Understanding more about your persistent pain and how it affects your life

Explaining. pain. Understanding more about your persistent pain and how it affects your life Explaining pain Understanding more about your persistent pain and how it affects your life Persistent pain (sometimes called chronic or long-term pain) is described as pain that continues for three months

More information

Kaiser Permanente Colorado

Kaiser Permanente Colorado Health and Wellness Newsletter December 2011 Depression Who is at risk for depression? Kaiser Permanente Colorado Depression is more common than many people realize. Often, people who become depressed

More information

How do I handle difficult situations with my friends, family, community, and school work?

How do I handle difficult situations with my friends, family, community, and school work? How do I handle difficult situations with my friends, family, community, and school work? Let s Assess YOUR Stress *Go to www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newtcs_82.htm *Complete the Social Readjustment

More information

Oral Systemic Therapy

Oral Systemic Therapy Patient & Family Guide 2018 Oral Systemic Therapy www.nscancercare.ca Patient s Name: Type of Treatment: Cancer Doctor: Cancer Clinic: Phone Number: Emergency Department Phone Number: Who do I call if

More information

This module includes informational handouts. and instructional exercise handouts on abdominal breathing, grounding, relaxation, mindfulness,

This module includes informational handouts. and instructional exercise handouts on abdominal breathing, grounding, relaxation, mindfulness, Relaxation Module The Relaxation Module has been organized so that materials can be handed out sequentially. More advanced skills are built on the preceding foundation. This module includes informational

More information

WHAT IS STRESS? increased muscle tension increased heart rate increased breathing rate increase in alertness to the slightest touch or sound

WHAT IS STRESS? increased muscle tension increased heart rate increased breathing rate increase in alertness to the slightest touch or sound EXAM STRESS WHAT IS STRESS? Stress is part of the body s natural response to a perceived threat. We all experience it from time to time. When we feel under threat, our bodies go into fight or flight response,

More information

Healthy Coping. Learning You Have Diabetes. Stress. Type of Stress

Healthy Coping. Learning You Have Diabetes. Stress. Type of Stress Healthy Coping Learning You Have Diabetes Learning you have diabetes changes your life forever. You may feel scared, shocked, angry or overwhelmed. You may not want to believe it. These are normal reactions.

More information

Session 15: Mindful Eating, Mindful Movement

Session 15: Mindful Eating, Mindful Movement Session 15: Mindful Eating, Mindful Movement Are there times when you realize that you are still eating and simply haven t noticed that you are not even hungry anymore? Do you ever get to the end of a

More information

Patient & Family Guide. Using TENS for Pain.

Patient & Family Guide. Using TENS for Pain. Patient & Family Guide 2017 Using TENS for Pain www.nshealth.ca Using TENS for Pain TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) provides stimulation that your body responds to by making natural

More information

Fibromyalgia summary. Patient leaflets from the BMJ Group. What is fibromyalgia? What are the symptoms?

Fibromyalgia summary. Patient leaflets from the BMJ Group. What is fibromyalgia? What are the symptoms? Patient leaflets from the BMJ Group Fibromyalgia summary We all get aches and pains from time to time. But if you have long-term widespread pain across your whole body, you may have a condition called

More information

image Empower Yourself With Knowledge for managing advanced prostate cancer

image Empower Yourself With Knowledge for managing advanced prostate cancer image Empower Yourself With Knowledge 7 Principles for managing advanced prostate cancer Where the mind goes... the body follows. Bill Blair, founder of Mets Mavericks, an Us TOO support group formed to

More information

The WorkCare Group, Inc. Content used with permission. StayWell is a registered trademark of The StayWell Company. All rights reserved.

The WorkCare Group, Inc. Content used with permission. StayWell is a registered trademark of The StayWell Company. All rights reserved. Stress and Your Workday: What is Stress? Relieve Stress Tips for Reducing Stress What is Stress? What is Stress? Stress is our body s response to change. Everyone feels stress from time to time. You can

More information

Functional rehab after breast reconstruction surgery

Functional rehab after breast reconstruction surgery Functional rehab after breast reconstruction surgery A guide for women who had DIEP, latissimus dorsi with a tissue expander or implant, or two-stage implant based breast reconstruction surgery Read this

More information

Understanding Alzheimer s Disease What you need to know

Understanding Alzheimer s Disease What you need to know Understanding Alzheimer s Disease What you need to know From the National Institute on Aging For copies of this booklet, contact: Alzheimer s Disease Education and Referral Center P.O. Box 8250 Silver

More information

Radiation Therapy: What to Expect Once the Treatments are Finished

Radiation Therapy: What to Expect Once the Treatments are Finished Patient & Family Guide 2018 Radiation Therapy: What to Expect Once the Treatments are Finished www.nscancercare.ca Radiation Therapy: What to Expect Once the Treatments are Finished After a long and perhaps

More information

The 3 P s (Pain, Poop, Physical Therapy) for Post-Op Spinal Fusions

The 3 P s (Pain, Poop, Physical Therapy) for Post-Op Spinal Fusions The 3 P s (Pain, Poop, Physical Therapy) for Post-Op Spinal Fusions Pain control is a key part of your care after surgery. It can help speed recovery and improve the results of your surgery. This handout

More information

I Can t Stand BOREDOM!

I Can t Stand BOREDOM! I Can t Stand BOREDOM! A Teenager s Guide to ADHD Booklet 8 In a Series Chesterfield County Public Schools 1 My biggest problem with school is boredom! Boredom is the Number 1 problem for people with ADHD.

More information

Stress Less Tools to improve your relationship with yourself September 30, 2016 MMS Women s Leadership Forum

Stress Less Tools to improve your relationship with yourself September 30, 2016 MMS Women s Leadership Forum Stress Less Tools to improve your relationship with yourself September 30, 2016 MMS Women s Leadership Forum Goals Specific tools you can learn and use as you move forward in life Self care Start with

More information

What is stress? Stress is an emotional/ bodily reaction to

What is stress? Stress is an emotional/ bodily reaction to The Basics What is stress? What are some causes of stress? Stress is an emotional/ bodily reaction to a physical, psychological or emotional demand We all display stress in different ways Some stress is

More information

Bipolar Disorder in Children and Teens

Bipolar Disorder in Children and Teens Bipolar Disorder in Children and Teens Does your child go through intense mood changes? Does your child have extreme behavior changes? Does your child get much more excited and active than other kids his

More information

Getting a New Kidney UHN. Information for patients and families. Is a kidney transplant right for me? Read this booklet to learn:

Getting a New Kidney UHN. Information for patients and families. Is a kidney transplant right for me? Read this booklet to learn: Getting a New Kidney UHN Information for patients and families Read this booklet to learn: about kidney transplants who can be donors how to start the transplant process how long the process might take

More information

Pain's Purpose. What is Pain Management?

Pain's Purpose. What is Pain Management? Pain's Purpose Aristotle called pain the "passion of the soul." While our notions of pain may not may quite as romantic as Aristotle's, it is important for us to recognize the constructive functions of

More information

REDUCE YOUR STRESS! This month is all about being happy. Find things that make you happy and do them. It s that simple.

REDUCE YOUR STRESS! This month is all about being happy. Find things that make you happy and do them. It s that simple. REDUCE YOUR STRESS! MONTHLY WELLNESS CHALLENGE This month is all about being happy. Find things that make you happy and do them. It s that simple. One in 10 people will deal with depression at some time

More information

Managing Inflammatory Arthritis. What to Discuss with Your Health Care Team

Managing Inflammatory Arthritis. What to Discuss with Your Health Care Team Managing Inflammatory Arthritis What to Discuss with Your Health Care Team Section 1 Introduction What to Discuss with Your Health Care Team This tool has been created with input from patients to provide

More information

Understanding Pain. Teaching Plan: Guidelines for Teaching this Lesson

Understanding Pain. Teaching Plan: Guidelines for Teaching this Lesson Understanding Pain Teaching Plan: Guidelines for Teaching this Lesson Lesson Overview This one-hour lesson plan is about pain and how your workers should respond to and care for residents with pain. You

More information

A Patient s Guide to Pain Management: Relaxation Training

A Patient s Guide to Pain Management: Relaxation Training A Patient s Guide to Pain Management: Relaxation Training 2350 Royal Boulevard Suite 200 Elgin, IL 60123 Phone: 847.931.5300 Fax: 847.931.9072 DISCLAIMER: The information in this booklet is compiled from

More information

Patient & Family Guide. Radiation Therapy.

Patient & Family Guide. Radiation Therapy. Patient & Family Guide 2018 Radiation Therapy www.nscancercare.ca Cancer Treatments: Radiation Therapy Radiation Therapy is a treatment that uses radiation from highenergy X-ray machines to kill cancer

More information

Session 16: Manage Your Stress

Session 16: Manage Your Stress Session 16: Manage Your Stress Stress is part of life. However, you can learn better ways to take care of yourself when faced with stress. Stress is not always bad. Some stress can make life interesting

More information

A Guide to Help You Reduce and Stop Using Tobacco

A Guide to Help You Reduce and Stop Using Tobacco Let s Talk Tobacco A Guide to Help You Reduce and Stop Using Tobacco Congratulations for taking this first step towards a healthier you! 1-866-710-QUIT (7848) albertaquits.ca It can be hard to stop using

More information

Introduction. Today we hope to provide tips and resources to help balance the challenges of caregiving and ensure that everyone is being cared for.

Introduction. Today we hope to provide tips and resources to help balance the challenges of caregiving and ensure that everyone is being cared for. Caregiver Wellness Introduction Being a caregiver can be both rewarding and challenging. It s easy to forget to tend to your own needs while caring for your loved one, but it is incredibly important. Today

More information