Pain is a common problem for people with pancreatic cancer. The tumor can cause pain by pressing against nerves and other organs.

The patient's doctor or a specialist in pain control can relieve or reduce pain in several ways:

• Pain medicine - Medicines often can relieve pain. (These medicines may make people drowsy and constipated, but resting and taking laxatives can help.)

• Radiation - High-energy rays can help relieve pain by shrinking the tumor.

• Nerve block - The doctor may inject alcohol into the area around certain nerves in the abdomen to block the feeling of pain.

• Surgery - The surgeon may cut certain nerves to block pain.

The doctor may suggest other ways to relieve or reduce pain. For example, massage, acupuncture, or acupressure may be used along with other approaches to help relieve pain. Also, the patient may learn relaxation techniques such as listening to slow music or breathing slowly and comfortably.

More information about pain control can be found in the NCI booklet Pain Control. The NCI's Cancer Information Service can send this booklet.

Glossary Terms

The application of pressure or localized massage to specific sites on the body to control symptoms such as pain or nausea. It is a type of complementary and alternative medicine.

The technique of inserting thin needles through the skin at specific points on the body to control pain and other symptoms. It is a type of complementary and alternative medicine.