Nociception

Nociception is the sensory process that provides the signals that lead to pain. This occurs through nociceptors, primary sensory neurons that are activated by stimuli that cause tissue damage. Stimuli can include tissue injury, extremes of heat and noxious chemicals. Unlike other sensory neurons that detect vision or taste, nociceptors are located all around the body, particularly under the skin, however, they are notably absent from the brain.