Pain Control

This guide can help you learn about the types of pain that people with cancer may have, medicines and other ways to help manage pain, and how to work with your health care team to find the best ways to control any pain you are having. Click on the topics below to get started.

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• What do I need to know about pain control?
• Facts about cancer pain treatment
• What causes pain in people with cancer?
• Treating cancer pain
• Developing a plan for pain control
• Keep a record of your pain.
• Your type of pain affects the treatment you will need.
• Learning about breakthrough pain
• What if I need a different pain medicine?
• Medicines used to relieve pain
• Common questions about taking pain medicines
• Non-opioid pain medicines
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• Opioid pain medicines
• Other types of pain medicine
• Other medical methods to relieve pain
• Non-medical treatments for pain
• Relaxation
• Biofeedback
• Imagery
• Distraction
• Hypnosis
• Skin stimulation
• Acupuncture
• Emotional support and counseling
• Research on pain control methods
• Additional resources
• References