Wellness > Managing Mesothelioma Pain

Cancer causes pain by extension of the tumor into soft tissues, nerve compression, getting into the bones, and by raising intercranial pressure.

The World Health Organization lists drugs used to fight cancer pain:

According to the WIO, some pains respond well to a combination of drugs, such as an opioid and a non-opioid or a coritcosteroid with an opioid.

Doctors also consider whether the pain is neuropathic, in which case antidepressants and anticonvulsants may be better options.

Analgesics are usually given by mouth, although rectal suppositories may be used for patients with vomiting or gastrointestinal obstruction.