Cancer Pain Management Techniques

A diagnosis of cancer can be a particularly traumatic experience for any person to endure. It can be the cause of much physical pain, emotional conflict, and perceptual distortions, With the passing of years, science has uncovered a variety of techniques in which cancer patients can learn to manage and reduce their pain.

Use of medication can be a significant source in the relief of pain inflicted by cancer. At times, non-prescription medications such as Tylenol, Aspirin, And Ibuprofen may be enough to relieve pain, if only mild to moderate. It's important to have knowledge of how to be careful with these medications, and is recommended that the patient discusses it with his or her doctor before use if there has been a history of kidney or liver disease, gastrointestinal bleeding, or a stomach ulcer. Often, patients will need a stronger medication, such as narcotic painkillers, anti-depressants, and anti-inflammatory drugs. As these medications are much stronger than non-prescription, it's recommended to follow the doctors orders while taking them. The key to controlling pain by means of medication is taking it on a regular schedule. It's not advisable to wait until the pain gets bad, as it will likely take longer to work, and may not be as effective.

By focusing on learning distraction, relaxation, and though re-focusing techniques, behavioral therapy is another approach in which patients can learn to manage and reduce their pain. By changing an individuals thought processes, cognitive behavioral therapy encourages the patient to change his or her behavior and emotional states to those of a positive nature. This type of therapy is one to take into consideration due to the strong link between the patients pain, and psychological factors such as mood, distress, depression, and anxiety. By learning to recognize and eliminate negative behavior and emotion, the patient is ultimately able to reduce their pain through means of positive outlooks and motivation in emotional relaxation.

As the battle with cancer begins to take its toll on the body, many patients will find that massage therapy could be exactly what they need as a form of relief from the pain they endure. Massage therapy not only offers the patient the touch stimulation they are often deprived of, but also plays a significant role in the reduction of blood pressure and respiratory rate, as well as providing relief from the stress and trauma that accompanies the fight against cancer.

As science and technology advances, therapies, medications, surgeries, and other techniques are steadily becoming more widespread and available to patients in search of a way to manage and reduce the pain they experience. These techniques all help to improve the quality of life as sciences continues to advance in it's journey and mission to improve the quantity of life.

Source:
Author: American Cancer Society
Title: Cancer Source Book for Nurses, Eight Edition
Site: www.cancer.org