According to research, 20 to 50 percent of cancer survivors have pain. Cancer pain can be one of the most difficult and debilitating types of pain to manage. However, there are treatments available that can make a big difference. If you or someone you love is dealing with this, know that relief is possible. Before we get into details on how cancer pain relief is possible, let us first understand what causes the pain and some of the symptoms. Let’s dig in, shall we?
What Causes Cancer Pain?
Symptoms can vary, from mild, to moderate to severe. The pain can be caused by cancer itself or the treatments used to fight cancer, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. In some cases, the pain may not be related to cancer at all. There are many different types of cancer, and each case is unique. However, there are some common symptoms patients experience.
Common causes include:
Cancer itself– Cancer can cause pain by growing and pressing against healthy tissue and organs. As cancer grows, it can also break bones or invade nerves, leading to pain.
Cancer treatments- Unfortunately, some of the very treatments used to fight cancer, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy can also cause pain.
Nerve damage– Nerves can be damaged by cancer itself or by the treatments used to fight it. This damage can lead to pain.
Infection– Infections are a common complication of cancer and can also cause pain.
Inflammation– Inflammation is a common side effect of cancer and its treatment. This can lead to pain.
How is Cancer pain Treated?
Identifying the source of your pain is the first step in treating it. Once the source is identified, your healthcare team will work with you to create a treatment plan. However, note that sometimes identifying the exact cause of pain might be very challenging as cancer can affect many different organs and systems in the body.
There are various ways to treat cancer pain, and the approach depends on the type and severity of the pain. Some common treatments include:
1. Medications
There are a number of different types of medications that can be used to treat cancer pain. These include over-the-counter drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen. Prescription medications such as opioids can also help manage the pain. Morphine and oxycodone are examples of opioids that cancer patients can use to manage their pain. Other drugs such as antidepressants and anti-seizure can also be used.
2. Nerve blocks
In some cases, a nerve block can provide significant pain relief by blocking nerve signals that cause pain. There are various types of nerve blocks, and the type that is used depends on the source of the pain.
3. Alternative therapies
Many people find relief from their discomfort by using alternative treatments and complementary medicine. These include massage therapy, radiation therapy, surgery, acupuncture, meditation, and yoga.
Help your Doctor Understand Your Pain
Cancer can take a big toll on your body and mind, and managing the pain can be difficult. According to prevalence studies, the pain still affects 37–64 percent of cancer patients. Therefore, it is crucial to keep your healthcare team updated on how you’re feeling and how the pain is affecting you both physically and emotionally. This will help them better understand your needs and provide you with the best possible care.
The take-away
Cancer pain can be debilitating, but it does not need to be an unbeatable foe. Relief is possible with appropriate treatment for the pain caused by this disease or its treatments. Pain management should not be guesswork; we can help you start living life again with less pain today. Our professionals will conduct a comprehensive evaluation and create an individualized treatment plan to manage your pain. Fill out the form below to contact our team today to get started on your journey to pain-free living.
