Cancer Pain

Facts:

Cancer will occur in 1.2 million people in the United States each year and nearly ? will die as a result of their cancer .

You Have a Right to Cancer Pain Relief

People who have cancer will experience some sort of pain at some point. It is important for you to understand that you do not have to live with pain. Cancer pain relief is available from your doctor in many forms. You have a right to ask for, and receive, cancer pain relief. You must communicate with your specialist. Discuss with him, or her, what you can expect while you are dealing with your cancer. Tell him all of your concerns and, if possible, have your family involved so they will understand what is happening. Ask what forms of pain medication are available and how they will affect your life. Many people continue to work during cancer treatment so dealing with pain is an important problem. There are many options to choose from so good communication is the key to deciding which option is best for you.

Taking Control of the Pain

Many people fear addiction since most cancer pain relief comes in the form of narcotics. The facts are, people rarely become addicted to medications used in cancer cure if they follow their doctor’s instructions. High doses may be required at some point but as your condition improves you can gradually decrease your dose, thus preventing withdrawal. It is important that you get control of your pain and stay with it. Pain is easier controlled if it doesn’t get out of hand. Holding out until you can’t stand it or skipping doses may result in poor pain relief. Taking narcotics for pain may produce side effects such as feeling dizzy, sleepy, or nausea. Most side effects will disappear with continued use but if they do not you should consult your doctor. He has many options available and he should be able to find one that is suitable for you.

Cancer pain relief is a very important part of your cancer treatment. People who suffer pain cannot function to the best of their ability. They lose sleep, become irritable, lose their appetite, and become depressed. When fighting cancer you need to get plenty of rest and proper nutrition so you can stay focused on your treatment. Your body requires you to keep up your strength if you want to successfully complete your treatment. Maintaining control of your pain will help you get the rest you need as well as help keep you in the right frame of mind. It can also help you live a more normal life while undergoing treatment.

Everyone has the right to expect cancer pain relief. No doctor will expect you to live in pain. There are many options available today which can keep you comfortable without interfering in your life. Your mental well-being is an important factor for success. Pain can take away your focus and disrupt your life. It is important to you and the ones you love for you to remain pain free.

Types of Cancer Pain

Somatic Pain

Somatic pain is experienced as a fast (A-delta) localizing pain and a slow (C-fiber) noxious sensation. Somatic pain is the result of activity by pain receptors in the deep tissues of the body, or on the surface. An example of deep tissue pain would be that of cancer that has spread to the bone. The site of pain cannot be pinpointed, and has a dull, achy feeling. An example of surface pain is pain at a surgical incision site. People describe this pain as being sharp, and possibly have a burning sensation.

Neuropathic Pain

Neuropathic pain is the most severe of the three types of pain.It is often described as a burning or tingling sensation. It is caused by injury to the nervous system. The injury can include a tumor putting pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. Chemotherapy or radiation can also cause chemical damage to the nervous system resulting in pain.

Visceral Pain

Visceral pain is unique as there is not a fast or slow component and is poorly localized compared to somatic pain. Visceral are internal organs contained in a cavity of the body, like the chest, abdomen and pelvis. So, visceral pain is pain felt in one of these areas caused the activity of pain receptors in these areas. In cancer, the activation of pain receptors can be caused by a tumor putting pressure on one or more of the organs, the stretching of the viscera, or general invasion of cancer. This type of pain is described as having a throbbing, pressured sensation.

Once the type of pain has been established, then it is categorized into either acute pain or chronic pain

Remember, cancer pain can be managed. With today's knowledge of cancer pain and the availability of pain-relieving therapies, no one should have to suffer from unrelieved pain.