Pain in cancer

Description of pain in cancer

Approximately one third of people, cancer patients, He is suffering from pain. On the occurrence of pain affect:

• Progression of the disease;
• Location of the tumor in the body;
• Condition Health.

Causes of pain in cancer

Based on the causes of pain in cancer, researchers have identified a variety of pain syndromes of cancer, including:

• Pain from the tumor – the tumor can press on bone, nerves or organs, with the result that there is a pain;
• Pain, related to cancer treatment – pain arises in the treatment of tumors. Methods, used to treat cancer:
  • Chemotherapy;
  • Radiation therapy;
  • Operation;
• Pain, not related to the cancer or its treatment method – the pain has nothing to do with the illness or its treatment, and may include:
  • Headache;
  • Arthritis;
  • Myalgia.

Risk factors for cancer pain

The presence of cancer is a major risk factor for this type of pain.

Symptoms of pain in cancer

Any type of pain, experienced by cancer patients, It can be considered cancer pain. The pain may be felt near or far from the location of the tumor. Pain intensity may also vary. It may be chronic or intermittent pain. The pain may be felt as oppressive, acute, stupid, throbbing, searing, stabbing, and / or aching.

Diagnosis of pain in cancer

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical examination. There may also be assigned to special tests, to determine possible causes of pain. To find some of the problems, such as bone fractures and damage to the internal organs may be used:

• CT scan – X-ray views, which uses computer, to make pictures of organs inside the body;
• MRT – test, which uses magnetic waves, to make pictures of structures inside the body.

To find breakdowns (diseases such as neuropathy, plexopathy or radiculopathy), It can be assigned:

• Rheotachygraphy (DOH) – measures the electrical activity of muscles;
• Measurement of nerve conduction velocity – It measures the speed of nerve impulses.

Treatment of pain in cancer

Doctor, depending on the type of pain, appoint an optimal treatment. Medications to treat cancer pain include the following:

Neopioidy

For the treatment of mild to moderate pain from cancer used:

• Acetaminophen;
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin and ibuprofen.

Opiates

Often used to treat moderate to severe cancer pain:

• Weak opioids (eg, codeine);
• Strong opioids (eg, morphine).

Other medications

Antidepressants, anti-epileptics and steroids may be effective for removal of certain types of cancer pain. These types of drugs may be useful, if the cause of the pain associated with central nervous system.

Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy may be used to relieve pain in the bones. It can also help reduce pain, caused by compression of the tumor to other organs.

If you are diagnosed with cancer pain syndrome, Follow your doctor's instructions.

Alternative methods of treatment of cancer pain

To relieve pain from cancer can sometimes be used acupuncture.

Prevention of Cancer Pain

Usually, cancer pain is difficult to avoid. To remove the pain, you need to consult a doctor, which will be the best treatment plan.