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Pain Conditions

Cancer Pain

Cancer pain is a common symptom of cancer and a side effect of cancer treatment. Cancer pain may be mild, moderate or severe and take many forms. Managing pain is an important part of cancer care.Cancer pain may arise from tumor pressure, nerve irritation, treatment-related inflammation, or post-surgical changes.

Symptoms can vary from aching or throbbing pain to sharp, burning, or neuropathic sensations that affect sleep, mobility, and emotional well-being. Managing cancer-related pain early helps maintain quality of life and support overall treatment goals.

What does cancer pain feel like ?


Pain related to cancer or its treatment can differ widely depending on the underlying cause. For instance, pain from cancer affecting an internal organ may feel very different from pain caused by cancer involving the bones. Examples include:

  • Bone pain may feel like a dull ache or throbbing pain.
  • Joint pain may make you feel sore, stiff or achy.
  • Nerve pain may feel like a burning sensation, shooting pain or tingling.
  • Soft tissue pain (pain in an organ or muscles) may be sharp, cramping, throbbing or an ache.

Causes:


  • Medical procedures:
    Tests such as biopsies or spinal taps performed to diagnose or monitor cancer can cause temporary pain or discomfort.

  • Tumor-related pressure:
    A cancerous tumor may press on surrounding tissues, bones, or nerves, leading to pain.

  • Treatment side effects:
    Cancer treatments can also cause pain; for example, certain medications that stimulate white blood cell production may result in bone pain.