When it comes to aches and pains, they’re not all the same. And the way we experience pain can vary, depending on the cause.
Acute pain such as headaches or period pain can be different to the pain caused by injuries, which may lead to longer-term chronic conditions. Here we’ve collected a few facts to help explain how pain works, and what you can do about it.
IT’S ALL IN YOUR HEAD (REALLY!)
Your brain interprets pain but doesn’t actually feel it. When you sprain your ankle, for example, nerve fibres send a signal to your brain, which recognises the feeling as ‘pain’.
WHAT’S WITH THE HEADACHE?
A temporary headache can usually be identified by what’s likely to have brought it on, such as tension, stress, sinus or overindulgence, aka a hangover. If you’re suffering from a headache you can find relief quickly with an over the counter painkiller like Nurofen Zavance. If the pain persists, see your doctor.
YOU REALLY CAN HAVE A HIGH OR LOW PAIN TOLERANCE
Everyone perceives pain differently, and a multitude of factors can play a part in this, including your emotional and psychological state, your age and your upbringing. This is why some people really can take higher pain levels than others.

THE WEATHER CAN AFFECT YOUR PAIN
Have you ever noticed your joint pain gets worse when it’s raining – or about to rain? You might not be imagining things. While scientists have mixed viewpoints on whether the weather actually causes pain, there are plausible theories that suggest changes in air pressure (which can happen before bad weather) can cause some people – like those with arthritis – to feel more pain in their joints.
FOR FAST RELIEF, FAST ABSORPTION IS KEY
Like all pain isn’t the same, not all Nurofen is the same either. Nurofen Zavance tablets and caplets are absorbed up to two times faster than standard Nurofen*, for quick and effective relief when needed. The unique formulation contains a sodium salt, which allows for faster absorption.
*Dewland P et al BMC Clinical Pharmacology 2009, 9:19.
Always read the label. Use only as directed, incorrect use could be harmful. Consult your healthcare professional if symptoms persist. Nurofen Zavance active ingredients: Sodium ibuprofen dihydrate 256mg (equiv. ibuprofen 200mg)