Cancer pain relief crucial to quality of life
By Mayo Clinic staffOriginal Article: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/cancer-pain-relief/MY01778
- With Mayo Clinic nurse educator
Sheryl M. Ness, R.N.
read biographyclose windowBiography of
Sheryl M. Ness, R.N.
Sheryl M. Ness
Sheryl Ness, R.N., O.C.N., is a nurse educator for the Cancer Education Program at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. She helps inform patients, families and caregivers about services and resources to help them through the cancer journey.
She has a master's degree in nursing from Augsburg College. In addition, she is an assistant professor of oncology at the College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, and is certified as a specialist in oncology nursing. Sheryl has worked for more than 20 years at Mayo Clinic as an educator. She has a keen interest in the importance of the quality of life and concerns of people living with cancer.
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Living with cancer blog
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June 4, 2011
Cancer pain relief crucial to quality of life
By Sheryl M. Ness, R.N.
Let's explore the concept of pain together. You can experience different types of pain, including pain from the cancer tumor or location of the tumor, or from side effects of treatment (radiation, surgery, and/or chemotherapy).
From my perspective, many people are reluctant to talk about pain with their cancer doctor either because they think it is something they must live with, or they do not want to "bother their doctor" with the question of pain relief.
Pain relief is extremely important and can directly affect your quality of life, ability to move forward in your recovery, as well as your emotional and psychological well-being. Talk to your health care team about your pain. Most cancer centers will have a pain clinic where you can meet with a pain specialist to address your individual concerns.
Investigate other ways to balance your medical treatment plan for pain relief by exploring alternative therapies including:
- Acupuncture
- Aromatherapy
- Biofeedback
- Hypnosis
- Meditation
- Massage
- Music therapy
Much progress is being made related to pain relief for people with cancer, however, more remains to be accomplished. Please share your perspectives on this topic together.
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