Not everyone with cancer has pain, and those who do don't always have continuous pain. Pain may be temporary and may improve with treatment, healing and time. If pain persists, it's important to realize it can be relieved. At the Roger Maris Cancer Center, our staff will partner with you and your family to manage any pain you may have because of cancer. Most of the pain associated with cancer comes from the cancer itself as it pushes on bones, organs or nerves.
Cancer treatments can also cause pain sometimes.
There are no laboratory tests that measure pain, so you must tell your doctor or nurse how the pain is affecting your life and whether or not the treatment you are receiving for pain control is effective. Begin by describing how the pain is affecting your everyday life, from your rest, sleep, appetite and mood to your work, hobbies and daily activities. To reach a department or location, see MeritCare Phone Numbers .