 Not everyone with cancer experiences cancer pain, but 1 out of 3 people undergoing cancer treatment does. Cancer pain occurs in many ways. Your pain may be dull, aching or sharp. It could be constant, intermittent, mild, moderate or severe. The two most common causes of cancer pain are the cancer itself and the treatments you receive to treat cancer.
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The cancer itself. Cancer can cause pain by growing into or destroying tissue near the cancer. Cancer pain can come from the primary cancer itself — where the cancer started — or from other areas in the body where the cancer has spread (metastases). As a tumor grows, it may put pressure on nerves, bones or other organs, causing pain.
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Cancer treatments. Such as chemotherapy, radiation and surgery — are another potential source of cancer pain. Chemotherapy can cause many potentially painful side effects, including mouth sores, peripheral neuropathy (numb and sometimes painful sensations in the feet, legs, fingers, hands and arms), constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal cramps. Radiation may leave behind a burning sensation or painful scars. Surgery can be painful, and it may take time to recover
There are many different ways to treat cancer pain. These medications include:
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Analgesics, such as aspirin or acetaminophen (Tylenol, others)
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Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others)
- Weak opioid (derived from opium) medications, such as codeine
- Strong opioid medications, such as morphine, oxycodone, hydromorphone, fentanyl or methadone
Acupuncture, among the oldest healing practices in the world, is part of traditional Chinese medicine. It involves the insertion of very fine needles into specific points on the surface of the body. When these points are stimulated, beneficial physical and mental changes occur. Acupuncture can offer complete pain relief naturally and with no adverse side effects. The sooner the treatment begins, the quicker the pain relieves. If you would like to pursue this form of treatment or information, please contact Xiaoyan.
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