Cancer Pain and how to deal with it

Cancer is one of the most devastating infections we have today. Its sudden and unexplainable growth and its lack of a defined cure make it challenging to deal with. Therefore, all medical professionals can do is try and manage its symptoms while making the patient’s quality of life as bearable as possible. Among the most typical cancer symptoms is Austin cancer pain. More about how to deal with this symptom is discussed below.
What is Cancer pain?
Different types of cancer are associated with multiple symptoms, depending on the type of cancer involved. It is, therefore, no surprise that not all types of cancer involve pain. It is more common if your cancer has returned or spread.
Cancer pain is of many types, i.e., achy, dull, burning, or sharp. It can also be intermittent, constant, moderate, mild, or severe. The pain level depends on the cancer type, its position, how advanced it is, and your pain tolerance.
Causes of cancer pain
The most typical cause is cancer itself. Other health problems, the cancer stage, type, and pain tolerance determine the amount of pain felt. Some usual reasons for the pain include:
Pain from cancer itself
This may be due to the tumor pushing on bones, nerves, or organs, i.e.
Bone pain
This comes about when cancer begins in or spreads to your bones. Treatment is done to protect the affected bone or control the spread of cancer. The pain may also be a side effect of growth factor drugs after treatment.
Other causes of cancer itself include spinal cord compression.
Pain that results from the cancer treatment surgery, or tests include:
- Phantom pain from the absent organ
- Pain after surgery
- Side effects from radiation treatments and chemotherapy
Treatment of cancer pain
There are multiple treatment plans for cancer pain available. This depends on the pain intensity and the cause of the pain. Several combined treatment plans may be needed to provide as much relief as possible. Some typical options include:
- Medications derived from opium
Opioid medications are known to deal with severe or moderate pain. Common opioid types include oxycodone and morphine. Some types offer pain relief after a short time; thus, they may be taken at a higher frequency, while others do not need to be taken as often as they are long-acting. Both of them can be used simultaneously.
- Over-the-counter pain medications
Moderate and mild pain levels may be relieved with medications that do not need prescriptions like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and aspirin
- Procedures to block pain signals
An operation to block nerve pain signals from getting to the brain can be performed. A numbing drug is typically introduced into or around the nerve.
- Other prescription drugs
Other prescribed medications may help, such as anti-seizure drugs, antidepressants, and steroids
- Integrative therapies
Therapies that may offer relief include massage, acupuncture, meditation, relaxation exercises, and hypnosis
Dealing with cancer is cumbersome as it involves many lifestyle changes to accommodate regular checkups. Cancer pain may be the least of your worries, but you should always mention it to your physician for help. For any cancer pain inquiries, visit us online, or call our offices in Austin, TX.