What Causes Cancer Pain?
Cancer pain can come from the disease itself or as a side effect of treatment.
- Pain from the cancer: Tumors can press on nerves, bones, or organs, leading to discomfort. Some cancers also release chemicals that cause pain or inflammation.
- Pain from cancer treatments: Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation can sometimes cause pain, even as they work to treat the disease.
Treatment Options for Cancer Pain
There are several ways to manage cancer pain effectively:
Medications
Pain relievers range from over-the-counter options like aspirin, acetaminophen (Tylenol), and ibuprofen to stronger prescription medications, including codeine and Dolophine.
Interventional Pain Management
For more persistent pain, specialized treatments like nerve blocks can help reduce discomfort by interrupting pain signals.
Alternative Therapies
Many patients find relief through complementary therapies, such as:
- Acupuncture and acupressure
- Massage therapy
- Physical therapy
- Meditation and relaxation techniques
- Hypnosis