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Cancer Pain
Living with cancer brings many challenges and managing cancer pain is often one of the most difficult tasks. Effective cancer pain management is crucial not only for physical comfort but also for maintaining a good quality of life. This description aims to provide comprehensive information on cancer pain management, covering various strategies, treatments and support options available to patients.
Cancer pain can result from the tumor pressing on bones, nerves, organs, from treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, surgeries or from other factors such as inflammation (swelling) or infection. It can be acute (sudden and short-term) or chronic (long-lasting) and its intensity can vary from mild to severe.
The first step in managing cancer pain is a thorough assessment by pain physician. This may involve discussing the location, intensity, quality and duration of pain, as well as any factors that worsen or alleviate it. Diagnostic tests such as imaging scans may also be necessary to identify the underlying cause of the pain.
Cancer pain management often requires a multimodal approach, combining different treatments and therapies to achieve the best results. This approach may include:
Analgesics (pain killers) such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), Opioids and adjuvant medications (antidepressants, anticonvulsants) can help manage cancer pain. Medications can be administered orally, topically, intravenously, or via other routes depending on the individual's needs.
Splanchnic Nerve alcohol neurolysis/ RFA – Pancreatic cancer pain, Gallbladder cancer pain & upper GI cancer pain.
T2-T3 Sympathectomy alcohol neurolysis/ RFA- Breast cancer pain, Lung cancer pain & Neck cancer pain
Stellate ganglion alcohol neurolysis/ RFA - Breast cancer pain, Lung cancer pain & head and Neck cancer pain
Lumber Sympathectomy alcohol neurolysis / RFA- Abdominal cancer pain
Superior hypogastric neurolysis- Pelvic cancer pain, uterine cancer pain, ovarian cancer pain and cervical cancer pain
Ganglion Impar alcohol neurolysis / RFA- Rectal cancer pain, scrotal cancer pain, vulval cancer pain
In addition to medications and Interventions other modalities such as- Radiation Therapy, Chemotherapy, Surgeries are offered. Non-pharmacological Approaches includes Physical therapies, Psychological Support, Psychological therapies & Palliative Care.
By pursuing these objectives with dedication and compassion, we work towards holistic cancer pain relief by alleviating the burden of cancer pain and enhancing the quality of life for individuals affected by this challenging condition.
Department of Pain Medicine and Palliative Care, Artemis Hospital, sector 51, Gururam 122001 IN