Pain threshold

Definition

Pain threshold is the minimum intensity at which a person begins to perceive a stimulus as painful. It varies between individuals due to genetic, psychological, and environmental factors.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Pain threshold can be influenced by factors such as stress, fatigue, and mood.
2. Genetic variations can cause differences in pain thresholds among individuals.
3. Certain medications, like analgesics, can elevate the pain threshold by altering pain perception.
4. Chronic pain conditions often result in lowered pain thresholds due to sensitization of the nervous system.
5. Pain threshold is distinct from pain tolerance, which refers to the maximum level of pain an individual can endure.

Review Questions

• What are some factors that can influence a person's pain threshold?
• How do medications like analgesics affect pain threshold?
• What is the difference between pain threshold and pain tolerance?

Related terms

Analgesic: A type of medication used to relieve pain.

Pain Tolerance: The maximum level of pain an individual can endure.

Hyperalgesia: Increased sensitivity to pain, often resulting from nerve damage or long-term opioid use.