One of the first things staff ask: "rate your pain from zero to ten". It isn't a formality — your number is the measuring unit we use to track your response to treatment: it was 8 and became 3 after the painkiller? The treatment is working.

In short — what to do

  1. Some strong painkillers can mask important signs the doctor needs to diagnose the cause — especially in acute abdominal pain before the first examination.
  2. The right painkiller is chosen by the type of pain and its likely cause, not just its severity.
  3. After the initial assessment, there is no medical reason to withhold good pain relief even before the diagnosis is complete — that is the modern approach.

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Your number out of 10 is how we measure your pain and track your relief
Your number out of 10 is how we measure your pain and track your relief
The full details

Why isn't the strongest painkiller always given immediately?

  • Some strong painkillers can mask important signs the doctor needs to diagnose the cause — especially in acute abdominal pain before the first examination.
  • The right painkiller is chosen by the type of pain and its likely cause, not just its severity.
  • After the initial assessment, there is no medical reason to withhold good pain relief even before the diagnosis is complete — that is the modern approach.

Help the team help you

  • Describe the pain: burning? pressing? stabbing? Does it come and go or stay constant?
  • Point to its location with one finger if you can, and mention if it travels anywhere.
  • List what painkillers you tried at home and when — so doses aren't doubled.
  • Tell them immediately if the pain worsens while you wait — triage is repeated as conditions change.

Doesn't wait its turn

  • Sudden severe "worst of your life" pain — tell staff immediately, don't wait your turn.
  • Pressing chest pain, or abdominal pain with a rigid abdomen — these are priority signs.

Worth knowing

Saying "it's nothing" out of politeness can delay your treatment, and saying "10 out of 10" while calmly scrolling your phone confuses the assessment — precise honesty is the fastest road to relief.

This content is for general health education only and is not medical advice. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional. In an emergency, call 998.

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