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I want to know the symptoms I have pancreatic cancer Someone I know has pancreatic cancer

Dealing with pancreatic cancer pain

There is support available to help you deal with pancreatic cancer and pain. There are also some things you can do that might help.

What's in the 'Pain and pancreatic cancer' information section?

The emotional impact of pain

Pain can affect your mood. For example, you may feel worried about being in pain, have trouble eating or sleeping, or find it hard to concentrate on other things.

Your mood can also affect your pain. Lack of sleep and feeling anxious, depressed, or worried can make pain feel worse. Your mind and body work together and influence each other, and both may impact your pain.

What can help?

Talk to your nurse. Being open with them about your feelings will help them support you better. They can answer your questions, find ways to manage the pain, provide emotional support and help you deal with it.

Read more about dealing with the emotional impact of pancreatic cancer.

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“ It really helped having good friends to listen to me and other members of my family to talk to.”

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Quotemarks Created with Sketch.

“I found that online support groups really helped. Talking virtually to people who also had a loved one with pancreatic cancer. Hearing their stories, sharing hopes and fears and receiving support and virtual love.”

Physical activity

Regular physical activity, such as going for a short walk, may help improve your mood and how you feel. It may also help you cope better with your pain and keep you fit.

Speak to your doctor or nurse about what physical activity might help and be suitable for you.

Complementary therapies

Some people find that complementary therapies help them deal with pain. These include acupuncture, reflexology and massage , as well as relaxation techniques like meditation and mindfulness. Read more about complementary therapies.

What can I do?

  • You could include something like a short walk in your daily routine.
  • Ask for a referral to a physiotherapist or occupational therapist (OT) to talk about physical activity if your mobility is poor, or you are worried about falling.
  • Some people find psychological (emotional) support such as counselling or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) helpful. CBT is a talking therapy that helps you manage problems by changing how you think and feel about them.
  • You might find that something you enjoy like a hobby can give you something different to focus on. This may help you deal with the cancer and pain.
  • Find out what complementary therapies are available near you. Hospitals, hospices and charities may offer some and there may be private therapists.
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Quotemarks Created with Sketch.

“ To deal with pain you have to take it from all angles. Spending time with loved ones, getting out and about and doing something you enjoy can help.”

Questions to ask your doctor or nurse

  • What can I do myself to help with pain?
  • Where can I get support to help me cope?
  • Would counselling be helpful?
  • Is there anyone I can speak to about my beliefs, such as a chaplain?
  • What sort of physical activity might help?
  • Would any complementary therapies help?

Speak to our specialist nurses

You can also speak to our specialist nurses on our free Support Line. They have time to listen to your concerns and answer your questions.

Speak to our nurses
Specialist nurse

More resources

What causes pain in pancreatic cancer?

Read more

What opioids are used for pancreatic cancer pain?

Read more

Find out about the support we offer

Read more

Updated April 2025

To be reviewed April 2028

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