Articles
Cancer pain: Relief is possible
When should you discuss cancer pain with your doctor, and what points should you bring up?
What are the side effects of cancer pain treatment, and what can you do about them?
Content
What causes cancer pain?
How do you treat cancer pain?
What are some reasons for not receiving adequate treatment for cancer pain?
How can you help your doctor understand your cancer pain?
What steps can you take to ensure you're receiving adequate cancer pain treatment?
What causes cancer pain?
Pain can be caused by the cancer itself. Pain could happen if the cancer grows into or destroys nearby tissue. As a tumor grows, it can press on nerves, bones or organs. The tumor can also release chemicals that can cause pain.
Treatment of the cancer can help the pain in these situations. However, cancer treatments, including surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, also can cause pain.
