Pain management Flashcards
What are nociceptors?
Nociceptors are specialized sensory receptors that detect harmful stimuli and transmit pain signals to the brain.
What types of stimuli activate nociceptors?
Nociceptors are activated by mechanical, thermal, and chemical stimuli that have the potential to cause tissue damage.
What are the two main types of pain fibers?
The two main types of pain fibers are Aδ fibers, which transmit sharp, fast pain, and C fibers, which transmit slow, dull, aching pain.
What is the gate control theory of pain?
The gate control theory suggests that pain signals can be modulated by non-painful stimuli, such as touch, by “gating” or inhibiting pain transmission at the spinal cord level.
What is central sensitization?
Central sensitization is a condition where the central nervous system becomes more sensitive to pain signals, resulting in an exaggerated pain response to stimuli.
What neurotransmitters are involved in transmitting pain signals?
Neurotransmitters like substance P, glutamate, and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) are involved in transmitting pain signals from nociceptors to the central nervous system.
What is the MOA of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in pain relief?
NSAIDs inhibit the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), which reduces the production of prostaglandins, compounds that mediate inflammation, pain, and fever.
What is the MOA of opioids in pain management?
Opioids bind to opioid receptors (mu, delta, and kappa) in the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral tissues, inhibiting the release of neurotransmitters and reducing pain perception.
What is the MOA of acetaminophen in pain relief?
Acetaminophen is believed to inhibit the COX enzyme, primarily in the central nervous system, reducing pain and fever without significant anti-inflammatory effects.
