Info
⚡ Pain
What it is, what helps, and when to seek medical help.
General guidance only; it does not replace medical advice. Talk to your medical team before any decision about your treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Pain: what is it and why does it happen?
Pain in cancer can be caused by the tumor, by the treatment, or by medical procedures. Managing pain is an essential part of your care — you should not have to put up with pain. Doctors have effective tools to control it.
Pain: what helps?
- Keep a pain diary: intensity (0–10), location, timing, and triggers.
- Do not delay reporting new pain to your doctor — uncontrolled pain is a sign that needs assessment.
- Take your pain-relief medicines exactly as prescribed, not only as needed if they are prescribed regularly.
- Local heat (a warm pad) can ease muscle pain.
- Relaxation techniques (breathing, meditation) can reduce how you perceive pain.
- Good sleep and eating well support your tolerance to pain.
Pain: when should you seek medical help?
New, severe or rapidly worsening pain — especially at night or at rest — needs urgent medical assessment. Do not try to manage severe pain on your own.
When to seek help
New, severe or rapidly worsening pain — especially at night or at rest — needs urgent medical assessment. Do not try to manage severe pain on your own.
See all warning signs