In the world of pain sensations, some types of pain occupy a special place in terms of their intensity, surpassing the painful experiences we are accustomed to. Scientific research in this area highlights several examples that demonstrate the limits of human tolerance to pain. IFLScience.

One such example is complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), which is characterized by intense and often persistent pain. It can occur after an injury, surgery, or even for no apparent reason. On the McGill pain scale, CRBS is rated 42 out of 50; this is higher than the pain of limb amputation without anesthesia.

Another famous example is the bite of a bullet ant. Entomologist Justin Schmidt developed a pain index for insect bites; Here the maximum score for a bullet ant bite is 4. This bite causes excruciating pain that can be compared to a sensation ranging from a slight tickle to a severe burning sensation.

Kidney stones are also known for their sharp and excruciating pain. Patients suffering from this condition often compare it to childbirth and other severe pains. Pain occurs when stones block the flow of urine, which can lead to kidney infections or loss of kidney function.

These examples highlight the complexity of pain as a sensory and emotional experience and point to research in this area. Despite the difficulty of treating some painful conditions such as CRPS, scientific advances in understanding pain mechanisms hold promise for better pain management and pain relief in the future.