One of the things I've learned, in as much as 
    I can, is I don't tell anyone. I'd rather be 
    rude than explain I'm in pain

I learned this lesson with ADHD as well. Most people will roll their eyes and think it's a simple lack of discipline. The rest give you advice, which is even worse.

I learned to communicate my needs to people, instead of my diagnosis. Example: "I have trouble focusing on my work in crowded areas - could I work in [some other location] when I'm not pairing?" instead of "I can't work here, I have ADHD." (Not that I ever put it that way, but you know what I mean)

But pain is a different story. I don't know how you would even explain that to people without getting all of the unwanted and unhelpful advice...