Chronic pain - by Katie Estridge
WHAT IT IS
Pain is a common symptom that can persist even after treatment, but there are many options for pain relief.
The two most common types of pain are:
- Peripheral neuropathy is a disorder that can be caused by certain drugs, radiation therapy, or the tumor itself, and some chemotherapy drugs can cause long-lasting neuropathy. Symptoms typically start in the hands or feet and can include numbness, tingling, pain, and muscle weakness.
- Joint pain is often caused by anti-hormonal medications for breast cancer.
HOW TO TREAT IT
While recovery from these types of pain can take time, symptoms can be managed with painkillers or local therapies.
No matter what type of cancer pain you are experiencing, there are options for pain relief. Don't hesitate to seek help and discuss your symptoms. With the right treatment, you can manage your pain and improve your quality of life.
Mild or low-dose pain relievers are typically the first line of treatment, and opioids may be used for moderate to severe cancer pain. In addition to medication, other holistic practices such as acupuncture help patients manage their pain levels.