How hyper-stimulation of the hypothalamus relates to Chronic pain

This week in pathophysiology we are studying endocrine functions. More specifically, we are focusing upon which structures secrete particular hormones, what triggers the release, and how the hormone affects bodily function. With some hormones, a releasing hormone from the hypothalamus is necessary for their secretion to begin. These hormones travel through the blood stream to initiate the action of their target cells (structures).

These hormones regulate changes/challenges called stress responses. When exposed to repeated stress, these response mechanisms become depleted and reach levels of diminishing return, therefore rather than the restoration of normal function, damage results. The ways in which these organ systems can be affected are by way of: the Immune defense system, Cancer (tumor growth cells), Cardiovascular disorders, Metabolic disorders, GI disorders, Reproductive and sexual disorders, Respiratory disorders, Musculoskeletal disorders, Pain, and Sleep patterns.

A friend of mine has chronic pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Acute pain is considered adaptive and in response to specific trauma or tissue injury, whereas chronic pain lasts beyond 6 months, and is no longer just adaptive, and can influence other functioning. The cycle of stress, inflammatory response, and pain are evident. Her painful episodes trigger the hypothalamus to release epinephrine and norepinephrine via the sympathetic nervous system, which in turn initiates the secretion of releasing hormones that reach the pituitary and the pituitary gland secretes other hormones that travel to the inflamed tissues. Although each time we respond to stress or pain we don't normally think about the body's endocrine responses, its helpful to look back and take the time to consider the complexity of our mind and body connection.