Understanding Healthcare

Acute Pain, Uncertain Cause

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Pain can be caused by many conditions that range from very minor to very serious. In some cases, though, pain comes and goes with no apparent cause.

We were not able to find the exact cause for your pain. At this time, there does not appear to be a sign of any serious illness causing your pain. More tests may be needed to determine the cause. In many cases, pain like this goes away by itself.


Home care

Take any medicines as prescribed. If a prescription medicine was not prescribed for pain, ask your health care provider if you can take an over-the-counter pain medicine such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Use these as directed on the label.

Talk with your provider before taking over-the-counter pain medicine if you have a history of kidney or liver problems, bleeding in the stomach, or heart disease.


Follow-up care

Follow up with your health care provider or our staff as directed.


When to seek medical advice

Contact your health care provider or seek medical care if you have any of the following:

  • The pain changes in pattern.

  • The pain doesn't lessen or it gets worse.

  • New symptoms appear.

  • You have a fever of 100.4ºF (38ºC) or higher, or as directed by your health care provider.

Online Medical Reviewer: Marianne Fraser MSN RN

Online Medical Reviewer: Rita Sather RN

Online Medical Reviewer: Vinita Wadhawan Researcher

Date Last Reviewed: 01/01/2025

© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
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