Most cancer pain comes from the cancer tissue itself as it presses on or invades bones, nerves, organs, and other structures. The nerves in the affected area send pain signals up the spinal cord to the brain, where the pain is perceived. What the pain 'feels like' varies considerably, from a dull throbbing to a sharp burning sensation. The intensity varies as well, from a slight ache now and then to intolerable, excruciating pain in the advanced disease stages. Some cancer pain develops as a result of cancer treatment such as pain from the side effects of chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
Physicians have a variety of options in treating cancer pain.
The type of cancer, the rate and pattern of progression, and the needs of the patient are all taken into consideration by the physician in advising a specific treatment. Morphine is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that works in the spinal cord to interrupt pain messages before they reach the brain. A smaller dose may provide better pain relief with fewer side effects. Most of the patients who still have pain or serious side effects with oral medications find these injections an effective alternative. Epidural injections - This treatment involves injecting morphine or another drug into the space outside the spinal fluid.