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Short Communication - Journal of Pain Management and Therapy (2023) Volume 7, Issue 2
Pain management in cancer patients: A multidisciplinary perspective.
Michael John*
Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology/Hepatology
- *Corresponding Author:
- Michael John
Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology/Hepatology
Indiana University Health, Indiana University School of Medicine, University Hospital
Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
E-mail:
Received:27-Feb-2023,Manuscript No. AAPMT-23-90280; Editor assigned: 28-Feb-2023, PreQC No. AAPMT-23-90280(PQ); Reviewed:14-Mar-2023, QC No. AAPMT-23-90280; Revised:20-Mar-2023, Manuscript No. AAPMT-23-90280(R); Published:27-Mar-2023, DOI: 10.35841/aapmt- 7.2.138
Citation: John M. Pain management in cancer patients: A multidisciplinary perspective. J Pain Manage Ther. 2023;7(2):138
Abstract
Pain is a common symptom in cancer patients, and it can significantly affect their quality of life. Pain management in cancer patients requires a multidisciplinary approach that involves the patient, the primary care physician, and specialists in palliative care, oncology, and pain management. This article provides an overview of the multidisciplinary perspective on pain management in cancer patients, including the assessment of pain, pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments, the importance of communication and patient education, and the barriers to effective pain management. Understanding the multidisciplinary approach to pain management can help healthcare providers provide optimal care for cancer patients.
Abstract
Pain is a common symptom in cancer patients, and it can significantly affect their quality of life. Pain management in cancer patients requires a multidisciplinary approach that involves the patient, the primary care physician, and specialists in palliative care, oncology, and pain management. This article provides an overview of the multidisciplinary perspective on pain management in cancer patients, including the assessment of pain, pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments, the importance of communication and patient education, and the barriers to effective pain management. Understanding the multidisciplinary approach to pain management can help healthcare providers provide optimal care for cancer patients.
Keywords
Cancer, Pain management, Multidisciplinary approach, Palliative care, Hospice care.
Introduction
Pain is a common symptom in cancer patients, and it can significantly affect their quality of life. Pain management in cancer patients requires a multidisciplinary approach that involves the patient, the primary care physician, and specialists in palliative care, oncology, and pain management. This article will discuss the multidisciplinary perspective on pain management in cancer patients, including the assessment of pain, pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments, and the importance of communication and patient education.[1].
Assessment of Pain
The assessment of pain is the first step in pain management. It is essential to assess the intensity, location, and quality of the pain to determine the appropriate treatment. The pain assessment can be done using various tools such as the visual analog scale (VAS), numeric rating scale (NRS), and the brief pain inventory (BPI).
Pharmacological Treatment
Pharmacological treatment is the cornerstone of pain management in cancer patients. The World Health Organization (WHO) has developed a three-step analgesic ladder for pain management in cancer patients. The first step involves the use of non-opioid analgesics such as acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The second step involves the use of weak opioids such as codeine or tramadol in combination with non-opioid analgesics. The third step involves the use of strong opioids such as morphine or fentanyl for severe pain that is not relieved by weaker opioids.[2].
Non-pharmacological treatment
Non-pharmacological treatment can be used in combination with pharmacological treatment or as a stand-alone therapy. Non-pharmacological treatments include physical therapy, occupational therapy, acupuncture, massage therapy, and relaxation techniques. These therapies can help reduce pain and improve the patient's quality of life.[3].
Importance of communication
Communication between the patient, the primary care physician, and the specialist is crucial for effective pain management. The patient should be encouraged to report any pain, and the physician should provide adequate information about the treatment options and their potential side effects. It is essential to involve the patient in the decision-making process and to set realistic expectations for pain relief.
Patient education
Patient education is an essential component of pain management in cancer patients. The patient should be educated about the nature of the pain, the treatment options, and the potential side effects of the treatment. The patient should also be educated about the importance of reporting any pain and the need for regular follow-up appointments.[4].
Barriers to pain management
There are several barriers to effective pain management in cancer patients. These barriers include inadequate knowledge and training of healthcare providers, fear of addiction and side effects, inadequate pain assessment, and lack of access to pain medications. It is essential to address these barriers to ensure effective pain management in cancer patients. Pain management in cancer patients requires a multidisciplinary approach that involves the patient, the primary care physician, and specialists in palliative care, oncology, and pain management. The assessment of pain is the first step in pain management, and pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments can be used to manage pain. Communication and patient education are crucial for effective pain management, and it is essential to address the barriers to pain management to ensure optimal care for cancer patients.[5].
Conclusion
Pain management in cancer patients is an essential aspect of their care and requires a multidisciplinary approach. Effective pain management involves assessing the intensity, location, and quality of pain and using a combination of pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments. Communication and patient education are also crucial for successful pain management, as is addressing the barriers that can prevent optimal care. By taking a multidisciplinary perspective on pain management, healthcare providers can improve the quality of life for cancer patients and provide them with the best possible care. It is important to continue to research and improve pain management strategies to ensure that cancer patients receive the most effective and compassionate care.
References
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- Lowenfels AB, Maisonneuve P, Cavallini G, et al.Pancreatitis and the risk of pancreatic cancer.N Engl J Med. 1993;328(20):1433-7.
- Ben Q, Xu M, Ning X, et al.Diabetes mellitus and risk of pancreatic cancer: a meta-analysis of cohort studies.Eur J Cancer. 2011;47(13):1928-37.
- Li D, Tang H, Hassan MM, et al.Diabetes and risk of pancreatic cancer: a pooled analysis of three large case–control studies.Cancer Causes & Control. 2011;22:189-97.
- Tempero MA, Arnoletti JP, Behrman SW, et al.Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma, version 2.2012: featured updates to the NCCN Guidelines. J Natl Compr Canc Netw. 2012;10(6):703-13.
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