Center for Pain Management

Pain, the Fifth Vital Sign

Blood pressure, pulse, respiration and temperature have long been defined as the basic "vital signs" of health or illness. Now recognized as the fifth sign, pain has become an important indicator of a patient's state of health, illness and well-being.

1. Realize that your pain is subjective. 

Everyone experiences pain differently. Pain control can only be achieved if you speak frankly to your physician.

2. Ask about pain scales. 

Posted in many examination rooms, the Wong-Baker Faces Pain Rating Scale can help you and your physician assess your level of pain. You may also be asked to rate pain using colors or a 10-point numerical scale.

3. Have an open discussion about your pain. 

Talk about when the pain began, what makes it worse and how it affects your sleep patterns, eating, daily activities, mood and emotions, or your relationship with family.

4. Go beyond pain medications.

 For chronic pain, seek answers to treatment options that target the source of pain. Medications do not cure or eliminate pain. Medications only work to help ease pain.