Depression and chronic pain

DEPRESSION AND CHRONIC PAIN
Pain is also common in patients suffering from depression. Psychological testing shows depression in up to 80 percent of chronic pain patients. Patients should be aware that they may be suffering from masked depression. Treatment of the depression frequently greatly reduces pain. In turn, a decrease in pain may also cause a decrease in depression.
Recent research confirms that dietary manipulation may be possible. Certain natural substances appear to be the forerunners of brain chemicals important in pain control. For example, the amino acid L-Tryptophan is a substance that is converted to Serotonin (also called 5HT), a brain transmitter substance involved in pain perception. When taken orally, it may help to modify the experience of pain and to encourage natural sleep. Some caution in the administration of L-Tryptophan may be necessary.
At the time this book was written disturbing reports of abnormally increased number of eosinophils (white blood cells) due to L-Tryptophan have been received in the United States and in Europe. This has led to the withdrawal of L-Tryptophan containing preparations in America and Australia. Another amino acid, D-L Phenylalanine, blocks the destruction of the natural opiates — endorphins — produced by the brain.
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Pain

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