Pain relief after surgery

Pain after an operation is a common problem but there is no need for you to be in a lot of pain. Pain relief after surgery is usually safe and effective.

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Pain relief during labour

Learn what natural and medical options are available to you to relieve pain during labour and how your birth support partner can help you.

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Epidural injection for chronic pain relief

An epidural injection can be used for most people, usually giving a safe and effective form of pain relief.

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Pethidine

Pethidine is an opioid pain-relief medicine that your doctor can prescribe. Find out more about pethidine, how it works and possible side effects.

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Tapentadol

Tapentadol is a prescription-only opioid medicine used for pain relief. Find out about tapentadol, how it works and its possible side effects.

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Medicines information

Learn more about a range of medicines, such as pain relief medicines, antidepressants and medicines for children.

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Spinal anaesthetic

A spinal anaesthetic can be used for most people, usually giving a safe and effective form of pain relief both during and after an operation or procedure.

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Peripheral nerve block (lower limb)

A peripheral lower limb nerve block can be used for most people, usually giving a safe and effective form of pain relief both during and after the operation.

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Peripheral nerve block (upper limb)

A peripheral upper limb nerve block can be used for most people, usually giving a safe and effective form of pain relief both during and after the operation.

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Epidural anaesthetic

An epidural anaesthetic can be used for most people, usually giving a safe and effective form of pain relief both during and after an operation or procedure.

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Aches and pains

Pain is a part of life, but it shouldn't stop you from living. Learn about the types of pain including back pain, headaches, and swelling in the groin, as well as pain relief.

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TENS (Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation)

TENS machine delivers a small electrical current to the body through electrodes attached to the skin. TENS, is a form of pain relief without medicine. Find out more about TENS.

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Can medicines be addictive?

Some medicines can be addictive. You can become dependent on a medicine. Find out the difference. Learn how to avoid becoming addicted to medicines.

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Fentanyl

Fentanyl is a strong opioid medicine prescribed by doctors for severe pain. Learn about its how it works and potential side effects.

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Facet joint injection

A facet joint injection can be used to find out if your pain is caused by your facet joints, or to treat pain in your facet joints.

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Pain-relief medicines

Pain relief medicines include over-the-counter and prescription medicines. Learn about their side effects as well as when and when not to use them.

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Opioid medicines and pain

Some pain medicines, such as opioids, need to be taken with care. Learn about the risks and benefits of opioids, side effects and pain-relief alternatives.

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Tramadol

Tramadol is an opioid pain-relief medicine used for severe pain. Find out how it works, its side effects and other ways to manage pain.

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Oxycodone

Oxycodone is an opioid pain-relief medicine used to relieve moderate to severe pain. Find out how it oxycodone works and about its possible side effects.

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Headaches

Headache is a common health complaint and most headaches are not serious. Learn about the different types of headaches and pain relief options.

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Codeine no longer available over the counter from Feb 1

Pain-relief medicines that contain codeine will no longer be available without a doctor's prescription from 1 Feb 2018. Here’s what you need to know.

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Anaesthetics (overview)

There are different forms of anaestheisa that can be used to provide a safe and effective way for you to have an operation or procedure, and to give you pain relief. Most people do not have any problems and are satisfied with their anaesthetic.

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Toothache and swelling

Toothache can start suddenly, with pain ranging from mild to very strong. It may extend from the tooth to the head, ear and jaw. Find out about pain relief options.

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Nerve pain (neuralgia)

Nerve pain can feel like a shooting, stabbing or burning sensation. You can be treated with pain relief medicines, exercise and alternative therapies. Learn how to identify symptoms and manage nerve pain.

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Codeine

Codeine is an opioid medicine used to relieve mild pain and suppress a dry cough. Find out how codeine works and about possible side effects.

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Hydromorphone

Hydromorphone is a strong opioid pain medicine prescribed by your doctor. Find out how it works and learn about its possible side effects.

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Methadone

Methadone is an opioid medicine available on prescription from your doctor. Find out how it works and and when it might be prescribed.

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Morphine

Morphine is an opioid-based medicine available on prescription from your doctor. Find out how it works and its possible side effects.

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Taking opioid medicines safely

Opioid medicines are prescribed to relieve pain caused by cancer, surgery or injury. It's crucial to take them safely to reduce risks of opioid harm.

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Dihydrocodeine

Dihydrocodeine is an opioid-based medicine available on prescription from your doctor. It is categorised as a 'weak' opioid. Learn more here.

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