5 Facts About Pain

Electrical signals carry pain impulses to the brain—that much scientists know. But how to treat pain remains a question, LiveScience reports. Here's the scoop:

1. It "is a complex mixture of emotions, culture, experience, spirit, and sensation," one expert said. In other words, it's hard to even define.

2. People suffering from chronic pain like backaches have smaller brains. Maybe their neurons just get stressed out.

3. Migraine sufferers desire 20% more sex, suggesting that migraines and sexual need could stem from the same chemicals.

4. Women have more pain receptors than men, and therefore feel more pain for longer periods.

5. Scientists have found that some animals feel less pain. Mole rats don't mind acid, for example. The question is why—and the answer could end up helping humans.

To learn more about pain, click on the link below. (More lists stories.)