Algiología

Without a doubt, pain is a very bothersome symptom; but at the same time, it is a reaction produced by our body to alert us when something is not quite right.

Therefore, it does not always present in the same way, and depending on its intensity, it is classified as follows:

• Acute: This is intense pain, generally associated with a specific injury; therefore, once the cause is treated, it is usually easily controlled.
• Chronic: This is pain that affects an individual for a prolonged period and whose intensity varies. It is generally associated with a more significant problem, which is why it requires treatment to be kept under control.
• Breakthrough: This type of pain surpasses the relief offered by common medications and is often treated with additional, specific drugs.

On the other hand, there is another classification based on the level of difficulty in determining its location:

• Somatic: This refers to pain that is easy to identify and is well localized; it feels like a sharp, pinpoint sensation.
• Visceral: This is associated with internal organs, is slow in conduction, diffuse, and generally difficult to pinpoint.

Just as there is a classification of pain based on its characteristics, it is also possible to identify the various factors that cause it.

The Tumor

When cancer grows and develops inside an organ, the tension caused by that stretching can result in pain. Similarly, if the tumor spreads to the spinal column, it can potentially cause spinal cord compression, resulting in intense pain in the back and neck. This situation must be treated as an emergency, as it can lead to other complications. Additionally, when cancer develops or spreads to the bones, some form of pain therapy is usually necessary.

Surgeries

Cancer treatment generally involves surgery to remove the tumor. Naturally, pain is expected after the surgical procedure, but it will gradually subside as the patient progresses through the postoperative period. However, if nerve damage occurred or if the healing process is slow, the pain may persist for some additional time. Furthermore, when an amputation is performed, it is common for the patient to experience «phantom pain,» which consists of mysterious discomfort in the limb that is no longer present.

Radiation and Chemotherapy

Likewise, the side effects of these treatments cause discomfort and pain, which must be addressed promptly to prevent the patient from deciding to discontinue their treatment. An example of this is the sensation of tingling, pricking, pain, numbness, and weakness in the arms, hands, legs, feet, and fingers (peripheral neuropathy). Other common injuries include mouth ulcers or skin burns. These discomforts may disappear over time or manifest even months after treatment, so careful monitoring of the patient’s general well-being is crucial.

Other Causes

Finally, there are other treatments that may require intervention with pain therapy. In cases of bone marrow transplants, stem cell therapy, or hormone therapy, there are associated risks that affect muscles and bones. Additionally, conditions such as lower back pain, migraines, or arthritis can also cause discomfort in cancer patients.

Undoubtedly, when discussing pain management for cancer patients, it is natural to refer to the strategies that have already been established in pain clinics.

Therefore, the most representative methods are outlined below:

Pain Management with Medications

First, there is a range of medications that the specialist administers according to the patient’s needs. For this reason, there is a classification of analgesics, opioids, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, among others that are part of this group. In addition to setting the daily dose of painkillers, it is very likely that your doctor will keep an emergency option in case the pain unexpectedly exceeds the control of the medication.

Self-Care Methods

Similarly, there are other therapies that provide well-being to the patient and help regulate pain, which rely entirely on the individual’s commitment. Consequently, meditation exercises, breathing techniques, manual and/or recreational activities, and cold/heat therapy are some practices that can be implemented.

Support Techniques

Additionally, massages, acupuncture, physical therapy, or psychological and nutritional support are among a series of techniques that benefit the patient from various perspectives. Although these treatments are complementary, they should always be practiced by a certified professional and with prior authorization from the treating medical team.

Other Procedures

Just as medications can have a certain level of effectiveness, other strategies are often applied to provide pain relief. Thus, surgery, nerve blocks, spinal analgesia, epidural injections, neurostimulation, radiation, and chemotherapy are some procedures that help alleviate pain in cancer patients.