How to Reduce the Pain Caused by Hodgkin's Disease

Hodgkin's disease is a cancer of the lymphatic system. It is often difficult to detect because it mimics many other harmless illnesses like the common cold or simple fatigue. As the disease progresses, you may feel some pain. Fortunately there are many ways to reduce the pain caused by Hodgkin's disease.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Ask your doctor to recommend prescription painkillers. Some may interact with the drugs used in chemotherapy treatment, but many will not.
2. Try natural products that can reduce certain symptoms of treatment for Hodgkin's disease. Ginger teas, for example, can reduce the nausea caused by chemotherapy, while acupuncture can decrease stress and general discomfort.
3. Get rest. Sleeping and avoiding strenuous activity reduces the load placed on your system and allows your body to focus on healing.
4. Ask your doctor about available clinical trials. Some clinical trials test pain medications in addition to curative treatments. Visit the American Cancer Society's Web site for information about current clinical trials (see Resources, below).

Tips & Warnings

• Ask for a second opinion regarding any diagnosis or treatment. Second opinions are a common practice and are often required by insurance companies.
• Ask your doctor about any changes you can make to your lifestyle to reduce pain.
• Don't be afraid to ask questions or refuse treatment. The Patient's Bill of Rights gives you the power to take some aspects of your care into your own hands.
• Ask your oncologist if there are medications or support groups available if you're dealing with depression or other mental stresses during treatment.