Controlling Pain: What To Tell Your Doctor

When describing pain to your doctor, give as much detail as you can. Your doctor may want to know:

• Where exactly is your pain? Does it move from one spot to another?
• How does the pain feel - dull, sharp, burning?
• How often do you have pain?
• How long does it last?
• Does it occur at a certain time of day - morning, afternoon, night?
• What makes the pain better? What makes it worse?
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• People with cancer often need strong medicine to help control their pain. Don't be afraid to ask for pain medicine or for larger doses if you need them. And the drugs will help you stay as comfortable as possible. People with cancer hardly ever get addicted to these drugs. Sadly, fears of addiction sometimes prevent people from taking medicine for pain. The same fears also prompt family members to encourage loved ones to "hold off" between doses. But people in pain get the most relief when they take their medicines and treatments on a regular schedule.