PATIENT INFORMATION

Palliative Cancer Care (Pain)

What Palliative Cancer Care (Pain) โ“

 Cancer related pain can be for short periods of time or constant โŒ›

 Palliative care includes making the patient as comfortable as possible

 Pain can vary in severity and may come with movement ๐Ÿ•บ

 Causes: direct effects of tumour, cancer treatment & related procedures, or unrelated to the cancer e.g. an infection


What are the Symptoms of Cancer Pain โ“

 Varies depending on the individual:

 Burning/shooting/tender sensations ๐Ÿ”ฅ

 Headache

 Nausea/vomiting ๐Ÿคข

 Stomach ache/constipation

 Shortness of breath ๐Ÿ’จ

 Fatigue

 Sleeping problems ๐Ÿ’ค

 Emotional issues: depression, anxiety


How do you Diagnose Cancer Pain โ“

 Medical assessment (and of history) ๐Ÿ”

 Specialist assessment if complex


How do you Treat Cancer Pain โ“

 Painkillers: ibuprofen, codeine, morphine ๐Ÿ’Š

 Antidepressants for nerve pain

 Anti-sickness medication

 Laxatives ๐Ÿงป

 Steroids e.g. dexamethasone

 Emotional and spiritual support ๐Ÿ™


Why should I Worry about Cancer Pain โ“

 Pain is common for cancer patients, during and following treatment ๐Ÿฅ

 It is common for there to be multiple pain symptoms

 Often a positive outlook can help to improve the sensation of pain ๐Ÿ“ˆ


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