Acute pain is a type of discomfort that comes on suddenly and is usually sharp in quality. It often results from an injury, surgery, or a medical condition, and typically lasts for a short duration, often less than three months. This type of pain serves as a warning signal to the body, indicating that something may be wrong. The intensity of acute pain can vary, and it may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as swelling or redness. Common examples include pain from a broken bone, surgery, or burn. Treatment often involves medications, physical therapy, or other interventions to address the underlying cause.