Introduction

Cancer pain can be managed.

Having cancer doesn't mean that you'll have pain. But if you do, you can manage most of your pain with medicine and other treatments.

This booklet will show you how to work with your doctors, nurses, and others to find the best way to control your pain. It will discuss causes of pain, medicines, how to talk to your doctor, and other topics that may help you.

Your "health care team" can help you manage cancer pain.

In this booklet, your "health care team" can mean any of the professionals you see as part of your medical care. These may include your oncologist, your family doctor, nurses, physical therapists, pharmacists, oncology social workers, clergy members, and others.

Read what you need.

Use this booklet in the way that works best for you. You may read it from front to back. Or you may want to read different parts as you need them.

There is a list of resources toward the end of the booklet. There is also a page where you can write down notes and keep track of the medicines you're taking. This section also includes a sample pain control record.