Impact and management of breakthrough pain in cancer.

Authors :: Zeppetella, Giovambattista
Source :: Current Opinion in Supportive & Palliative Care; Mar2009, Vol. 3 Issue 1, p1-6, 6p
Publication Year :: 2009
Abstract: The article reviews the effect of breakthrough pain, how to manage it and new treatments for cancer patients. The study defines breakthrough pain as that which is felt by patients with cancer in connection with other pains. It is noted that there are several steps to manage breakthrough pain which includes the assessment of pain, changes in lifestyle and the causes of pain. It is also noted that analgesic is the treatment used for breakthrough pain which includes opioids, nonopioids and oral opioids.