One-Third of Cancer Survivors
Individuals diagnosed with cancer can experience pain caused by the disease itself, the treatments for the disease, or both. In fact, a report published by researchers from Mount Sinai, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, University of Virginia, and the American Cancer Society found that one out of every three patients will experience cancer pain. In cases of advanced cancer – cancer that is spreading or has recurred – the chance of experiencing chronic pain is even higher.
Causes, Symptoms & Complications
Individuals with cancer may experience pain from the disease itself or as a side effect of treatment, including (but not limited to):
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- By destroying tissues.
- By the chemicals that cancer cells and tumors secrete.
- Through tumors that place pressure on nerves, bones, or organs.
- Through cancer treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery.
At PMIR Medical Center, we understand all different types of pain. Our cancer pain management specialists can help you discover the type and cause of your pain and effectively treat it. Symptoms include (but are not limited to):
BONE PAIN
Bone pain, which is generally aching, dull or throbbing, can occur when cancer spreads into the bone.
NERVE PAIN
Nerve pain is caused by pressure on nerves or the spinal cord, or by damage to the nerves. This pain often results from nerves cut during cancer surgery or from radiation or chemotherapy.
PHANTOM PAIN
Phantom pain is pain from a part of the body that has been removed. An example includes pain in the breast area after removal of the breast due to cancer.
REFERRED PAIN
Referred pain is pain that comes from one part of the body but is felt in another part of the body. Soft tissue pain is also described as dull, aching or throbbing and results from a body organ or muscle.
EXHAUSTION & DEPRESSION
Exhaustion and feelings of sadness and depression. Cancer-related pain can also lead to exhaustion and feelings of sadness and depression.
Diagnosis & Treatment Options
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Our doctors focus on identifying the cause of chronic pain and developing a personalized cancer pain management plan. Understanding the intensity and character of the pain (dull, sharp, shooting, throbbing) helps to identify the true origin of pathology and inform proper treatment. At PMIR Medical Center, we understand that pain is a complex condition that affects the whole person – body, mind, and spirit. That’s why we provide a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to treatment, customizing the most effective treatment plans for our patients and empowering them to become a collaborative partner in their recovery process. Some of our treatments include:
