Somatic pain

Nociceptive stimulus usually evident

Usually well localized

Similar to other somatic pains in pt's experience

Relieved by anti-inflammatory or narcotic analgesics

Visceral pain

Most commonly activated by inflammation

Pain poorly localized and usually referred

Associated with diffuse discomfort, e.g., nausea, bloating

Relieved by narcotic analgesics

Neuropathic pain

No obvious nociceptive stimulus

Associated evidence of nerve damage, e.g., sensory impairment, weakness

Unusual, dissimilar from somatic pain, often shooting or electrical quality

Only partially relieved by narcotic analgesics; may respond to antidepressants or anticonvulsants