What is Cancer Pain?

Causes of Cancer Pain:

• The cancer itself (e.g., a tumor pressing on nerves).
• Cancer treatments (e.g., chemotherapy or surgery).
• Cancer growth affecting:
  
  • Bones
  • Nerves
  • Organs
• Side-effects from cancer treatments.
  
  

Symptoms of Cancer Pain:

• Aching, throbbing, or burning pain.
• Can be constant or intermittent.
• Ranges in severity.
  
  

Diagnosis of Cancer Pain:

• Detailed patient history.
• Physical examination.
• Often includes:
  
  • Imaging tests.
  • Laboratory examinations.
    
    

Conservative Treatments for Cancer Pain:

• Pain relievers:
  
  • Over-the-counter analgesics.
  • Prescription opioids.
• Complementary therapies:
  
  • Massage.
  • Acupuncture.
    
    

Interventional Treatments for Cancer Pain:

• Nerve blocks.
• Neurostimulation.
• Intrathecal drug delivery systems.
• Radiofrequency ablation.
  
  

Goals of Cancer Pain Management:

• Manage pain effectively.
• Improve patient comfort level.
• Enhance quality of life.