C-fibers primarily transmit what type of pain sensation?

C-fibers primarily transmit dull, aching, and diffuse pain sensations. This is because C-fibers are unmyelinated and have a slower conduction velocity compared to A-delta fibers, which are responsible for sharp, localized pain sensations. The slower transmission allows C-fibers to relay information about more chronic and persistent pain, which is typically diffuse and not well localized. This type of pain is often associated with inflammation or tissue damage, allowing the body to respond to ongoing painful stimuli in a more protective manner.

In contrast, other types of fibers, such as A-delta fibers, are more involved in transmitting sharper and more immediate pain sensations that are easily localized. This differentiation in fiber types is critical for understanding how the body perceives different types of pain and the implications for treatment in a clinical setting.