Important Guidelines
• Taking pain medication by mouth is the easiest method . It is generally as helpful as injections .
• If your pain is constant , pain medication should be taken on a regular schedule . This maintains a steady level of the medication in your bloodstream .
• Keep a record of your pain rating and what medication helped at the time .
• Narcotics may cause severe constipation . Ask your doctor for treatment options .
To Help with Comfort
• Take slow , deep breaths to help you relax .
• Support your back and the bony areas of your body by changing position every couple of hours .
• Try light touch and scented lotions . Ask your doctor before you have any deep massage . It may not be okay for some cancers .
• Adjust the temperature and lighting in your room to make it calmer and more soothing .
• Use the power of your mind and think about being in a peaceful , relaxing place .
• Listen to music , watch TV , read , or visit with family and friends to help take your mind off the pain .
Remember that the goal of pain management is to help you be comfortable throughout your treatments and in your daily life . You may need to try several pain medications before finding the one that works best .
Tell your doctor or nurse if you have :
• Pain in a new area
• Numbness , tingling , or a “ pins and needles ” feeling
• Increased pain while taking the same amount of medication
• A change in the type of pain , such as dull pain becoming sharp
• Problems dealing with any side effects of pain medicines , such as constipation or sleepiness
Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy involves damage to the peripheral nerves that are throughout the body and carry messages to and from the brain and spinal cord .
There are many things that can cause damage to these nerves . Diabetes is the most common cause . Other causes include vitamin deficiencies , alcoholism , and other diseases . Tell your doctor if you already are experiencing peripheral neuropathy .
Some chemotherapy drugs also can cause peripheral neuropathy . Tell your doctor or nurse right away if you notice any of these signs :
• Numbness , tingling , or weakness in your hands or feet
• Pain that can be burning , sharp , or jabbing
• Sensitivity to touch
• Stumbling while walking
• Problems picking up small objects or using buttons or zippers
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