Pain management impacts millions of Americans each year and costs the national economy billions of dollars. This is because chronic pain costs more than just the cost of medical care.
The hidden costs of chronic pain can impact the economy of the entire country because it has such massive impacts on individuals. If you or someone in your family is going through ongoing pain, here are some of the hidden costs that you may experience:
Difficulty Working
For someone going through chronic pain problems, working can be very difficult, no matter what you do for a living. If you work in job where you have to sit most of the day, you could aggravate your pain. If you work a very physical job, that could also make pain more intense.
Depending on the source of your pain, it could be difficult to concentrate at work and perform your best. Headaches, for example, can be very hard to ignore when you are trying to work.
These difficulties can lead to serious costs. If your pain causes you to need to miss work and take sick days, that can cost both you and your company money. If the pain continues to get negatively impact your work, you run the risk of losing your job, which can lead to a number of monetary issues.
Potential Disability
Pain problems are the leading cause of disability for American adults, according to the American Chronic Pain Association. When pain reaches the point of becoming a disability, there can be a number of potential costs that come along, both for the individual and society.
If a pain-related disability leaves you unable to work, costs can quickly begin to add up. Not only will you need to pay for your medical expenses, but all of the other areas of your life as well. Even if you are able to collect disability, you are likely to have to keep costs down to make it all work out.
Trouble Enjoying Activities
Though the financial costs of chronic pain can be numerous, perhaps the most debilitating cost of all is the personal cost. When you are constantly in pain, it can make it difficult to enjoy your family, friends and hobbies.
There is no dollar amount that can make up for missing memories because you are in pain. You deserve to enjoy your life without the constant struggle of pain holding you back.
Invest in the Right Medical Treatment
With all of the costs that chronic pain can bring about, it can be overwhelming. However, your focus should be on getting better. Though there are costs associated with chronic pain treatment, getting help now can help lessen the expenses you will pay down the road.
Putting off medical treatment is not a good idea. Consider the costs of medical care as an investment in your future. You want to get your pain under control so it does not impact your ability to earn income or enjoy your life.
If you wait to get help, the pain may get worse. Treatment now can actually save you money later.
