Pain brought on either by the illness itself or by the cancer treatments is referred to as cancer pain. The intensity and duration of pain might differ based on various factors, including the type and stage of cancer, as well as an individual’s pain threshold.
Given the high incidence of cancer in India, cancer pain is a serious problem. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) estimates that 1.39 million new instances of cancer are diagnosed in India each year, and by 2025, the number is predicted to increase to 1.57 million. According to research, up to 70–80% of cancer patients report experiencing pain at some time throughout their disease. Pain is a typical symptom experienced by cancer patients. Studies show that, despite the high frequency of cancer pain, it is frequently underreported and undertreated in India, in part because of societal norms, a lack of knowledge, and restricted access to cancer pain treatment specialists and pain management options.
Palliative care and other pain treatment therapies are not widely available in India, especially in rural regions. In addition to increasing awareness of the value of pain management in cancer care, efforts are being undertaken to increase access to pain management services, particularly those provided by cancer pain management specialists. In India, there are several obstacles to efficient pain management, such as stigma surrounding palliative care and opioids, shortage of qualified healthcare professionals, and regulations about the prescription of opioids. Cancer pain is a serious problem that has to be addressed. To enhance the quality of life for cancer patients in India, Dr. Anushka is working to enhance pain management services, increase public knowledge of cancer pain, and remove obstacles to care.
Causes Of Cancer Pain
Understanding the multifaceted nature of cancer pain is paramount for effective management. Here are key contributors to cancer-related pain:
Tumour Growth
The proliferation of tumours is a primary source of cancer-related discomfort, exerting pressure on bones, organs, or nerves as they expand.
Nerve Compression
Neuropathic pain, characterized by sensations like burning, tingling, or shooting pain, can arise from tumour compression or infiltration of nerves.
Inflammation
Inflammatory responses triggered by cancer cells or the immune system can induce painful sensations.
Bone Metastases
Metastatic bone disease, where cancer spreads to the bones, often manifests as dull or painful discomfort, exacerbated during movement or nighttime.
Visceral Pain
Cancer affecting internal organs can produce deep, dull, or cramping agony known as visceral pain.
Treatment Side Effects
Pain is a common consequence of various cancer therapies such as immunotherapy, radiation, chemotherapy, and surgical procedures, including peripheral neuropathy from chemotherapy.
It's imperative for cancer patients to communicate openly with their medical team about any discomfort experienced to tailor a comprehensive treatment plan aimed at enhancing their quality of life through effective pain management.
Symptoms of Cancer Pain
Persistent Discomfort
Cancer-related pain often persists or worsens over time, presenting as unremitting discomfort.
Location And Distribution
The type and site of the malignancy influence the localization and spread of pain throughout the body.
Varied Intensity
Cancer pain exhibits a spectrum of severity, ranging from mild to severe, and may be described as throbbing, dull, or acute.
Movement-Associated Discomfort
Individuals with cancer, particularly those with bone metastases or nerve compression, may experience exacerbated pain during physical activity or specific movements.
Neuropathic Sensations
Neuropathic pain, characterized by sensations such as searing or tingling, can occur in some cancer patients due to nerve injury.
Visceral Discomfort
Cancer affecting internal organs may elicit deep, dull, or cramping agony known as visceral pain.
Pain Management Interventions
Nerve blocks
The injection of a medicine or local anaesthetic to prevent certain nerves from sending pain signals. Various blocks like CELIAC PLEXUS and SUPERIOR HYPOGASTRIC Block are done to treat various cancers.
Spinal cord stimulation
Spinal cord stimulation involves implanting a gadget that blocks pain signals in the spinal cord by sending electrical impulses.
Treatment for Cancer Pain
A multidisciplinary approach is frequently used to treat cancer pain to efficiently manage pain, minimizing side effects, and enhancing quality of life. Based on the patient’s overall health and preferences, the type and stage of the cancer, the location and intensity of the pain, and other factors, the treatment plan is customized for each patient. Consultation with a cancer pain management specialist is essential to tailor an effective therapy plan. The following are a few typical cancer pain therapy options:
Medications:
- Analgesics: Used to treat moderate to severe pain, these include both opioid and non-opioid analgesics (such as morphine, oxycodone, and fentanyl) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (such as acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).
- Adjuvant medications: These are drugs that were once intended to treat ailments other than pain, but they can also be useful in the treatment of some pain disorders. Corticosteroids, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants are a few examples.
Others:
- Radiation therapy: Used to reduce the size of painful tumours or to ease discomfort from bone metastases.
- Surgery: Occasionally performed to remove painful tumours or to release pressure on nerves.
- Physical therapy: Helps lessen discomfort and increase function, strength, and mobility.
- Psychological support: Cognitive-behavioral therapy, counselling, or relaxation methods can help enhance coping mechanisms and manage the emotional effects of pain.
- Complementary therapies: Some people may find that methods like massage, acupuncture, and mindfulness meditation help them manage their pain and feel better overall.
- Palliative care: Palliative care is a speciality medical service aimed at enhancing the quality of life and relieving symptoms for patients suffering from life-threatening illnesses, such as cancer. Pain, other symptoms, and the negative consequences of medication can all be managed with palliative care.
Do's for Cancer Pain
- Do keep lines of communication open. Communicate openly and honestly with your medical staff about your pain thresholds, worries, and preferred methods of pain relief.
- Do adhere to your prescribed course of treatment. For effective pain management, take prescribed drugs, keep appointments, and adhere to suggested therapy.
- Do take care of yourself well by getting enough sleep, maintaining a healthy diet, drinking lots of water, and participating in restorative and wellbeing-promoting activities.
- Do not stop moving. Mild exercise, like yoga or walking, can help with pain management, mobility issues, and mood enhancement.
- It can be difficult to manage cancer pain emotionally, so do look for emotional assistance. Seek assistance from a mental health professional, friends, family, or support organizations.
- Do take into account complementary therapies. Acupuncture, massage, and relaxation methods are a few that can assist reduce pain and enhancing general health.
- Do make use of assistive devices. Braces, canes, and walkers are examples of assistive devices that can help you move around securely and lessen the pressure on your body.
Don'ts for Cancer Pain
- Never ignore your pain. Taking care of it as soon as possible will help it not get worse. If you’re in agony, don’t be afraid to get help.
- Never self-medicate. Refrain from altering your drug schedule or self-treating illnesses without first speaking with your doctor.
- Remain socially engaged and ask for help when you need it. Avoid isolating yourself. You can manage your discomfort more skillfully if you have social support.
- Take it easy. While it’s crucial to maintain an active lifestyle, pay attention to your body and refrain from overdoing it as this might exacerbate pain.
- It takes a team to manage cancer pain, so don’t be embarrassed to ask for assistance. Never be afraid to ask friends, family, and your medical team for assistance when you need it.
- Keep your hope alive! There is hope for effective pain management, and new methods and therapies are always being researched. Remain upbeat and proactive in your pain management.
Dr. Anushka Patel - Cancer Pain Management Expert
There are several benefits to consulting with a pain management specialist. It is typical to concentrate on the affected area when a patient is in pain. Still, it’s also critical to understand the patient’s medical history, way of life, and eating and sleeping habits, in addition to the symptoms and underlying causes. Because of her training and experience, Dr. Anushka can determine the underlying source of the problem. With a correct diagnosis, she has a good prognosis for you to look forward to. Dr. Anushka is a highly sought-after pain management specialist because she places a high importance on the care provided during and after surgery or therapy.
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