Tag

Pain Sensitivity

All articles tagged with #pain sensitivity

neuroscience2 years ago

The Pain-Politics Connection: How Aching Influences Political Sympathy

A study involving over 7,000 participants has found a correlation between pain sensitivity and political openness. Pain-sensitive individuals tend to endorse values and support politicians typically associated with the opposing political camp. Liberals with high pain sensitivity were more likely to vote for Trump, while pain-sensitive conservatives showed a tendency to support Biden. This suggests that our moral and political orientations may be influenced by our physical experiences of pain.

health2 years ago

"The Anesthetic Needs of Redheads: Debunking the Myth"

The relationship between red hair and pain sensitivity is complex and not fully understood. While some studies suggest that redheads may be more sensitive to certain types of pain and require more anesthesia, other studies have found no significant differences. The genetic mutation responsible for red hair, known as the MC1R gene, may play a role in altering pain thresholds and sensitivity to opioids. However, the exact mechanisms are still unclear. Further research is needed to fully understand the connection between red hair and pain perception.

health2 years ago

The Link Between Disturbed Sleep and Increased Pain Sensitivity

A new study has identified a potential mechanism for why sleep deprivation can intensify pain sensitivity. Researchers found that sleep-deprived mice had reduced levels of the neurotransmitter N-arachidonoyl dopamine (NADA) in a brain region associated with sensory processing and arousal. Administering NADA to this region alleviated heightened pain response in the mice. The study suggests that sleep disruption leads to decreased NADA levels, contributing to increased pain sensitivity. The findings highlight the potential of targeting the endocannabinoid system, which includes NADA, as a therapeutic approach for managing pain associated with sleep loss.

science2 years ago

The Neanderthal Connection: Genetic Influence on Pain Sensitivity

Scientists have discovered that certain Neanderthal genes, specifically three variations of the SCN9A gene, are associated with increased sensitivity to pain caused by sharp prodding. These gene variants were found at a high frequency among individuals with Native American ancestry. The study, which analyzed genetic data from over 5,900 individuals across Latin America, suggests that these genes may have been passed down through interbreeding between Neanderthals and modern humans. The researchers also speculate that these genes may have provided an evolutionary advantage in coping with cold conditions. Further research is needed to fully understand the effects of these gene variants.

health2 years ago

The Influence of Neanderthal DNA on Pain Sensitivity Revealed

Neanderthal gene variants in the SCN9A gene, which codes for a protein involved in pain detection, may increase pain sensitivity in individuals who carry them. A study analyzing genetic samples from over 5,900 people in Latin American countries found that these Neanderthal gene variants were more common in individuals with Native American ancestry. The variants were associated with increased sensitivity to pain caused by sharp objects but not heat or pressure. The study suggests that these gene variants may have been inherited from Neanderthals who interbred with modern humans migrating into the Americas. The findings provide insights into the genetic basis of pain sensitivity and its potential evolutionary significance.