Tips for managing cancer-related pain

Five facts

Here are five things to know about cancer-related pain:

It is different from other chronic pain. Cancer-related pain can come from many different factors: a tumor presses on the nerves and tissues around it; medical evaluations, such as a biopsy or bone marrow test; Or chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, or other treatments. And unlike chronic pain, the nature of cancer pain can change quickly. Doctors say it’s important to re-evaluate yourself frequently so that treatment can be adjusted. Without it, pain can really make people weaker and can increase their sensitivity to pain if left unchecked.

It is not enough to say that you are suffering. You need to talk privately about how you feel and how the pain affects you. Start by describing which part of your body hurts, what the pain feels like (burning, stinging, stabbing, or a dull ache, for example), how severe it is, how often it occurs, how long it lasts, and what it might be like. Interfering with your activities. If you also experience nausea, vomiting, fatigue, cough, or any other side effects, mention them as well.

Every patient needs a personalized pain management plan. It should depend on the type and stage of cancer you have, your personal sensitivity or tolerance to pain, and how the pain affects you. You should also take into account your other medications, your medical history, and your personal preferences for pain control.

Pain management improves. Pain management options continue to grow, including opioids, anti-inflammatory drugs, nerve pain relievers, nerve blockers, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants. You may also want to consider evidence-based supportive therapies such as acupuncture, massage, meditation, guided imagery, and physical therapy to help you manage cancer-related side effects.

Poorly controlled pain can affect your body, mind, and spirit.
In addition to being physically exhausting, the intense pain associated with cancer can make you worry about the future and grieve the loss of your previous life. It can also lead to changes in the brain that can exacerbate and exacerbate pain. This is why you should act as your own advocate and work with a pain management physician who has experience with cancer patients. Be sure to ask about the different options available.

Learn more about cancer pain management.