Decoding Chronic Pain: Understanding the Inherited Factors of Chronic Conditions
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What is Chronic Pain?
More than 50 million adults in the U.S. live with chronic pain, affecting their daily activities and overall quality of life. Chronic pain, as defined by the CDC, is pain that lasts more than three months and is often accompanied by shooting, aching, or burning sensations. In addition to physical discomfort, it may lead to depression, anxiety, and substantial medical expenses. Understanding the array of causes and risk factors is critical for effective management and prevention.
Common Causes
Chronic pain often arises from injuries, diseases, or conditions that alter the body, persisting even after initial healing. Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, and depression are also known to contribute to psychogenic pain. Recent developments in research have also shed light on how genetics can play a key role, in predisposing certain individuals to pain conditions based on hereditary factors.
Genetics and Chronic Pain
Genetics can influence susceptibility to chronic pain, with certain conditions being linked to hereditary factors. Common examples include:
- Back Pain: While factors like posture and age are common contributors, conditions like degenerative disc disease (DDD) can have a hereditary component.
- Arthritis: Certain types of arthritis can also involve hereditary components. Ankylosing spondylitis (AS), for example, is a type of arthritis causing spinal inflammation. This condition is associated with the HLA-B27 gene, which is present in about 90% of AS cases.
- Fibromyalgia: Though its cause is unclear, genetic factors may influence pain perception, with some mutations affecting neurotransmitter production.
- Endometriosis: A hereditary condition that causes severe pelvic pain, research shows endometriosis often runs in families.
- Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS): This group of connective tissue disorders is often inherited and can lead to joint pain, hypermobility, and fragile skin, making individuals more susceptible to chronic musculoskeletal pain.
Genetic Link to Migraines
Migraines, characterized by intense headaches, can be inherited, with a 50-75% likelihood of developing migraines if one parent has a history. Certain genetic mutations are linked to familial hemiplegic migraine (FHM), a severe form of the condition:
- ATP1A2: Mutations to this gene affect sodium-potassium enzymes and can result in impaired nerve cell function.
- CACNA1A: Mutations to this gene impact calcium ion regulation in neurons, which can disrupt neurological activity.
- SCN1A: Mutations to this gene affect sodium channels in neurons, with variants potentially increasing migraine risk.
Treatments for Chronic Pain
While chronic pain’s treatment depends on its underlying cause, certain lifestyle changes can help to alleviate symptoms:
- Reducing stress
- Regular exercise
- Maintaining a balanced diet
- Ensuring proper sleep
Even before you've exhausted these basic improvements, it is often best to see a pain management specialist and let them know if chronic pain or any related conditions run in your family. Dr. Matthew Kohler of Ospina Medical, with specialized genetic training through WildHealth, offers tailored pain management strategies. Book your consultation with our team today, especially if you are a patient with genetic predispositions to chronic pain conditions. Early intervention and awareness can lead to more effective treatment and prevention, reducing any long-term impacts to your quality of life.
Written By: Kaitlyn Tsai
Edited By: Camden Rowe
Medically Reviewed By: Matthew Kohler, MD