*Welcome to the OutUK series looking at gay men and their health brought to you in association with the NHS* website.**
	Each week we'll tackle a different topic in our A to Z of Gay Health. We'll have features and advice on everything from relationships, sexual health, mental and physical conditions and how to stay fit. You can follow any of links provided below for more information direct from the NHS website, or see this week's feature L: Laxatives.

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a poorly understood condition where a person experiences persistent severe and debilitating pain.

Although most cases of CRPS are triggered by an injury, the resulting pain is much more severe and long-lasting than normal.

The pain usually only affects 1 limb, but it can sometimes spread to other parts of the body.

The skin of the affected body part can become so sensitive that a slight touch, bump or even a change in temperature can cause intense pain.

Affected areas can also become swollen, stiff or undergo fluctuating changes in colour or temperature.

CRPS often gradually improves over time. But some people with CRPS experience pain for many years.

Find out more about the symptoms of CRPS.

When to get medical advice

You should see a GP if you have persistent pain that's preventing you from carrying out everyday activities.

Diagnosing CRPS can be difficult because it involves having tests to rule out other possible causes.

It's best to get help as soon as possible, as early treatment may help reduce your painful symptoms.

Find out more about diagnosing CRPS.

The cause of CRPS is unknown, but for many people it's thought to be the result of the body reacting abnormally to an injury.

Find out more about the possible causes of CRPS.

It's difficult to estimate exactly how common CRPS is, as many cases may go undiagnosed or be misdiagnosed. But it's thought to be fairly uncommon.

CRPS can affect people of any age, including children. It tends to be more common in women than men.

There's currently no cure for CRPS, but there are a number of treatments that can help manage the symptoms.

There are 4 main types of treatment:

education and self-management - being given clear information about your condition and advice on any steps you can take to help manage it yourself
physical rehabilitation - treatment to help manage your symptoms and reduce the risk of long-term physical problems, such as physiotherapy exercises
pain relief - treatments to help reduce your pain, such as anticonvulsants or antidepressants
psychological support - treatments to help you cope with the emotional impact of living with CRPS, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)

Because of the complex nature of CRPS, a number of different healthcare professionals will usually be involved in your care.

Find out more about treating CRPS.

OutUK's A to Z of Gay Health continues and you can read this week's feature L: Laxatives. We have covered many subjects in this series and you can catch up with all of our Previous A to Z Features. If you want to find out more about this particular topic you can visit the Original article on the NHS website. If you are worried by any aspect of your health make sure you go and see your doctor or book an appointment at your local clinic.
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