How to Reduce the Pain Caused by Pancreatic Cancer

Because the pancreas is located between the spine and small intestine in close proximity to a number of vital tissues, organs and bodily structures, pancreatic cancer can be quite painful. Prescription pain medications and treatments of nerve endings are 2 of the most frequent means doctors employ to reduce the pain caused by pancreatic cancer.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet access
• Oncologist

Instructions

1. Discuss pain management options with your doctor prior to your operation if you are going to be having surgery for pancreatic cancer. You may be administered prescription drugs or have alcohol applied to your nerve endings during surgery to dull their pain receptors.

2. Have a nerve ending-weakening injection through the abdomen if you are not having surgery. A doctor can also administer alcohol treatments to your nerve endings by inserting a needle directly through your skin. It can be an effective way to reduce pain.

3. Reduce pain by getting a prescription for an effective painkiller. Be absolutely certain you follow the directives of the pharmacist who administers your prescription. Also, be aware of the potential for developing dependency, as the majority of painkillers prescribed to cancer patients are opioid analgesics, which can carry some risk of addiction.

4. Manage nausea and vomiting by using specially formulated drugs to combat the stomach-upsetting side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Ask your doctor to explain your options.

5. Talk to your doctor if you develop intense itching. Buildups of displaced bile near your skin layers, caused by pancreatic cancer and exacerbated by its treatment, can result in a severe itch. While lotions and creams should generally not be applied to sites where radiation therapy has taken place, your doctor can advise you if your case is an exception.

6. Keep a positive mindset. The power of positive thinking can also help keep pain at bay.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask your oncologist if he or she can recommend any effective alternative or holistic treatments if you have concerns about mixing pain medications with any other medications you might already be taking.

• Get to know your patient rights. You have the right to the privacy of your medical information and the right to confidentiality, respect and courtesy. Your employer is also not allowed to discipline you or terminate your employment for insisting upon taking time to receive medical treatment.

• A cancer diagnosis and its subsequent treatment can take a sharply adverse toll on your mental strength. If you are troubled by depression, anxiety or feelings of despair, seek treatment through a mental health network.