What type of pain is classified as visceral pain?

Visceral pain is associated with internal organs and is typically described as a deep, aching, or throbbing sensation that can be difficult to localize. This type of pain arises from the activation of pain receptors in the viscera, which include organs such as the heart, lungs, liver, and gastrointestinal tract.

Unlike somatic pain, which originates from the skin, muscles, bones, and soft tissues, visceral pain is often vague and can be accompanied by autonomic symptoms such as sweating, nausea, or changes in heart rate. The nature of visceral pain is also influenced by emotional factors and can be referred, meaning that the sensation may be felt in areas distant from the actual source of the pain.

Understanding visceral pain is crucial in the context of diagnostics and treatment, as it can be indicative of various medical conditions related to internal organs.