Visceral pain refers to discomfort that originates in the thoracic, pelvic, or abdominal organs, such as the stomach, bladder, or uterus. It is a complicated and diverse illness that can cause minor discomfort to severe agony.
What are the signs and symptoms?
Visceral pain, unlike somatic pain, is frequently nonspecific and non-localized. In most situations, it is not completely understood or properly characterised, making treatment difficult. It frequently feels like pressure or aching.
Causes and treatment
Visceral discomfort is assumed to occur when internal organs and/or tissues are damaged or disrupted. Possible causes include:
- Internal organ damage
- Core muscle or abdominal wall injury
- Core muscle spasms
- Digestive difficulties such as constipation
- Infection of the digestive and renal systems
- Internal organ cancer
- Endometriosis
- Menstrual discomfort
- Prostate damage
Treatment of visceral pain is frequently more challenging than treatment of other types of pain since it is typically more widespread and difficult to localise than other types of pain. Pain relievers and other drugs (such as NSAIDs) are occasionally recommended to help control symptoms.
Medical cannabis and visceral pain
Medical cannabis has long been seen as a viable alternative to powerful opioids in the treatment of pain. There is mounting evidence that the endocannabinoid system is crucial in pain signalling. This might make cannabis a valuable pain management treatment.
Our expert physicians have extensive expertise in evaluating individual situations and determining if medicinal cannabis might be a viable treatment choice.
Visceral pain examples
Visceral pain originates from the internal organs and is often described as deep, dull, or aching. Here are a few examples:
- Appendicitis: Pain typically starts around the navel and then shifts to the lower right abdomen. It can be severe or sharp.
- Gallstones: Causes pain in the upper right abdomen, often radiating to the back or right shoulder.
- Kidney Stones: Intense, cramping pain in the lower back or side, often radiating to the lower abdomen and groin.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Causes cramping and abdominal pain associated with bowel movements.
- Pancreatitis: Upper abdominal pain that can radiate to the back, often accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Burning pain in the chest (heartburn) that can spread to the throat.
- Menstrual Cramps: Lower abdominal pain associated with the menstrual cycle.
- Bladder Pain (Interstitial Cystitis): Pelvic pain and pressure, often accompanied by urinary urgency and frequency.
Visceral pain is typically less localised than somatic pain and can be associated with autonomic symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or sweating.
Medical Marijuana and Visceral Pain
Increasing evidence suggests that medical cannabis could serve as a promising substitute for potent opioids in visceral pain management. The growing body of research highlights the pivotal role of the endocannabinoid system in pain signaling, potentially positioning marijuana as a valuable therapeutic option for pain relief.
Private consultation for cannabis prescription at MARUCANNA
At MARUCANNA, our private cannabis consultation is designed to be quick and simple. First, check your eligibility for free, then complete a short questionnaire to get an instant decision. If you qualify, you’ll have a virtual consultation with our doctor.