About pain caused by cancer

Bone pain

Nerve pain

Pain from increased intracranial pressure

Pain from obstruction

Bone pain

Bone pain is caused by the tumor pressing on or invading the bone is one of the most common causes of pain with cancer. Bone pain is especially common in cancers of the breast, prostate, and lung when tumors spread (or metastasize) to bone.

In some cases, bone pain responds poorly to the usual pain relievers. The group of medications called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are particularly effective for relieving bone pain.

These medications -- commonly used for arthritis and muscle injuries -- block the specific mechanism through which bone tumors create pain (prostaglandins).

Corticosteroids and radiation treatment can also be helpful in managing bone pain.

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