Cancer Pain
In the U.S., more than 1.5 million cases of cancer occur every year. On top of this, over 500,000 people die due to complications from cancer each year. Many people without cancer believe dealing with impending death is the most difficult part of having cancer, but those with cancer can attest to the fact that this is not true. It is dealing with the physical pain that is the most difficult part of having cancer.
Cancer patients should never feel they must be in pain. So many options for the relief of cancer pain are available that a doctor can find one for any situation. It is up to each patient to determine a balance between the pain medication and the lifestyle they are comfortable leading. Anyone experiencing cancer pain owes it to themselves to discuss what options are available with their physician. The discussion should include what is available, how it is to be taken and what effects it will have on life.
Pain and Cancer Treatment
Pain treatment through medication is an important part of cancer treatment. Many people do not like the idea of taking narcotic pain killers, but dealing with the pain is much worse alternative. Pain is both physically and psychologically debilitating. It can cause stress that keeps the body from healing or responding to the cancer treatments that the patient is undergoing. A cancer patient must be as comfortable as possible so he or she can relax and perform some activities from which a little pleasure can be obtained. This is difficult to achieve when the patient is overwhelmed by pain.
Types of Cancer Pain
Cancer pain is categorized into one of three different types, depending on the sensation and what is causing the pain. The three types are as follows:
• Somatic Pain – This is the most common type of cancer pain. It is brought about by the pain receptors just under the skin or deeper into the tissue. The pain is dull at times, like an ache, but it can also come in waves that are strong, fast and localized to a specific area.
• Neuropathic Pain – This is the most severe type of cancer pain. Neuropathic pain can feel like a painful tingling or fast vibration that will not stop, or it may be felt like an intense burning. The pain is caused by damage to the central nervous system. It can be due to a tumor that is putting pressure on the spine or from nerve degeneration.
• Visceral Pain – Visceral pain is difficult to localize to a specific area. It is felt as a throbbing or high-pressure sensation. This type of pain is caused by nerves in the internal organs located in the chest, abdomen or pelvis. A tumor can activate the pain receptors of these nerves by putting pressure on them or on the lining of the body cavity.