Managing period pain

Period pain (dysmenorrhoea) can make it difficult to enjoy your normal activities. Learn how to manage painful periods and when to see your doctor.

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Toothache and gum swelling

Toothache and gum swelling occur when there is a problem with your teeth or gums. Read about the causes and treatment of toothache and gum swelling.

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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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Gout

Gout is a type of arthritis that causes sudden pain and inflammation in joints – often your big toe. Read about how gout can be treated and prevented.

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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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Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines

Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines are medicines you can buy without needing a prescription. OT medicines can cause side effects and drug interactions.

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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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Medicines information

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

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Pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis appears as sudden, severe upper abdominal (tummy) pain, that may spread to your back. Read about pancreatitis symptoms and treatment.

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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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Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen treats fever and pain caused by inflammation. Learn more about how it works, how to take it and its possible side effects.

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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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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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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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Gastroparesis

Gastroparesis is a condition in which the muscles around your stomach don't work properly. Although gastroparesis cannot be cured, the symptoms can be relieved.

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PEG tube placement

A percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube is used when you can’t eat enough food. The PEG tube supplies food direct to your stomach.

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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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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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Spinal disorders

General treatments such as improving diet, exercise, weight control and reducing smoking may help some back problems. Learn about relief.

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Insect bites and stings

Insect bites or stings can cause itching, redness or swelling. Learn more about the symptoms, treatments and how to prevent insect bites and stings.

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Relaxation techniques for stress relief

Relaxation can help relieve the symptoms of stress. Learn how relaxation can help you to calm down and manage stressful situations.

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Bleeding gums and dental bleeding

Bleeding gums and dental bleeding can be caused by gum disease, a dental procedure or an injury. Read about how to prevent and treat dental bleeding.

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Abdominal pain

Abdominal (tummy) pain can have many causes. Read about the causes and treatment for abdominal pain, as well as when to see a doctor.

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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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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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Adenoidectomy

Adenoidectomy is the removal of the adenoids, lumps of tissue at the back of the nose. Find out more about adenoidectomy and recovery in children.

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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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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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