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

During labour, natural and medical pain relief options are available. Learn more about different types of pain relief and when they might be suitable.

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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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Medicines information

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

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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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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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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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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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Steroid (corticosteroid) injection

Steroid injections (corticosteroids) can be used to reduce inflammation. Learn how steroid joint injections work and the side effects to look out for.

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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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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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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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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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Oxycodone

Oxycodone is an opioid pain relief medicine used to relieve 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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TENS (Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation)

TENS provides pain relief without medicine by delivering a small electrical current through electrodes on the skin. Learn more about TENS therapy.

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Toothache and swelling

Toothache can start suddenly, with pain ranging from mild to severe. There are many possible causes. Read about pain relief for toothache.

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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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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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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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Methadone

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

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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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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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Dihydrocodeine

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

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Fentanyl

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

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Opioid withdrawal symptoms

Opioid withdrawal symptoms may vary depending on the opioid. Find out how to stop safely and manage symptoms to prevent long-term health risks.

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Opioids

Opioids are a group of medicines prescribed by doctors to treat pain. Learn about side effects, withdrawal symptoms and what to do in an overdose.

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