Why does cancer cause so much pain?

Cancer pain is a complex phenomenon that can arise from various sources. It is important to understand that not all cancer patients experience pain, but for those who do, the reasons can be multifaceted. Firstly, cancer pain can be caused by the physical presence of a tumor. As tumors grow, they can exert pressure on surrounding tissues, including bones, nerves, and other organs. This compression can lead to significant discomfort and pain. Secondly, cancer treatment itself can sometimes be a source of pain. Treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy can have side effects that include pain. For instance, certain chemotherapy drugs can cause peripheral neuropathy, which can result in numbness and tingling sensations in the extremities, such as the hands and feet. Additionally, cancer can lead to bone metastases, where the cancer cells spread to the bones and weaken them, potentially leading to fractures and severe pain. Moreover, the immune response and inflammation associated with cancer can also contribute to pain. Lastly, the psychological impact of a cancer diagnosis and the stress it brings can exacerbate the perception of pain. Pain is not just a physical phenomenon; it is also heavily influenced by emotional and psychological factors. In summary, the experience of pain in cancer patients can be due to the tumor's impact on the body, the side effects of treatment, the spread of cancer to bones, and the psychological burden of the disease.

Most cancer pain is caused by the tumour pressing on bones, nerves or other organs in the body. Sometimes pain is due to your cancer treatment. For example, some chemotherapy drugs can cause numbness and tingling in your hands and feet.