Even a common cold can trigger an intense headache, so one can only imagine the level of suffering caused by more serious medical conditions. Certain diseases are known to inflict extreme and often unbearable pain on those affected.

Pain is an unpleasant sensory experience that causes physical distress and is usually triggered by factors such as injury, inflammation, infections, or underlying medical conditions.

When a person experiences acute, disease-related pain, it often leads to fatigue, weakness, and a general feeling of illness, as persistent pain drains the body’s energy. Severe disorders can cause intense pain in different parts of the body, significantly disrupting daily activities and overall quality of life.

In many cases, when pain occurs as a symptom of an underlying disease, relying solely on painkillers provides only temporary relief. Addressing and treating the root cause of the condition is essential for long-term pain management.

Numerous diseases affect humans with varying degrees of pain—some far more intense than others. Below is a list of some of the most painful diseases known to affect the human body.

# Cluster Headache

Often referred to as “suicide headaches,” cluster headaches are among the most painful neurological conditions. They cause sudden, severe, stabbing pain in the head, and their exact cause remains unknown.

# Kidney Stones

Kidney stones can cause excruciating pain when mineral deposits accumulate in the kidneys, leading to inflammation, blockage, and sometimes infection.

# Shingles

Shingles is a viral infection that affects the nerves and surrounding skin, resulting in intense pain, burning sensations, and discomfort.

# Cancer

Cancer is one of the leading causes of severe pain, especially in advanced stages. As tumors grow, they damage surrounding tissues and nerves, making pain a common and significant symptom.

# Arthritis

Arthritis is a common condition, particularly among older adults, where joint inflammation leads to stiffness, swelling, and chronic pain that can severely limit mobility.

# Trigeminal Neuralgia

This neurological disorder causes sudden, sharp, electric shock-like pain in the face and is considered one of the most painful nerve-related conditions.

# Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a painful condition in women where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing severe menstrual pain and chronic lower abdominal discomfort.