Cancer-Related Chronic Pain

Cancer-Related Chronic Pain is a common side effect of cancer and associated treatments, affecting around 30-50% of patients during their treatment. This condition can have not only a physical toll on the patient, but it can also significantly impact their mental health and wellbeing. Almost half of patients with chronic pain also suffer with depression.

What are the symptoms?

Cancer-Related Chronic Pain can affect patients in a number of different ways. The symptoms experienced will depend on the patient and the underlying cause of the pain. The pain experienced can vary in severity, duration, location, and character.

Cause and treatment

Most cases of Cancer-Related Chronic Pain are considered to be are a result of ongoing tissue injury (nociceptive pain) or to damage of the nervous system – both of which can be a result of the cancer itself or of associated treatments.

Simple painkillers are often implemented as a first-line treatment with stronger painkillers, such as codeine, tramadol, and morphine, considered in more severe cases. However, holistic approaches are also commonly used, including physiotherapy, modifications to the work and home environment, and psychological therapies.

Medical Cannabis and Cancer-Related Chronic Pain

Medical cannabis may be considered in cases of Cancer-Related Chronic Pain where first-line therapies have not achieved adequate relief. There is growing evidence to suggest the benefits of cannabinoids – particularly CBD and THC – for relieving various types of pain, including Cancer-Related and non-cancer chronic pain.

Our specialist physicians are experienced in assessing individual cases and helping to determine whether medical cannabis could be an effective option.