Speak to our specialist nurses about pain
You can speak to our specialist nurses on our free Support Line with any questions about pain and how it can be managed.
What's in the 'Pain and pancreatic cancer' information section?
- Managing pancreatic cancer pain
- What is pain and what causes it?
- Types of pancreatic cancer pain
- Who can help manage my pain?
- Painkillers for pancreatic cancer pain
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and paracetamol
- Opioid painkillers for pancreatic cancer
- Common concerns about opioid painkillers
- What if my pain relief isn’t working?
- Other types of pain relief for pancreatic cancer
- How does a nerve block treat pancreatic cancer pain?
- Dealing with pancreatic cancer pain
What can help if my pain relief isn’t working?
Don’t wait to ask for help with pain. Tell your doctor or nurse straight away if your pain gets worse or is not being controlled.
Your doctor or nurse may increase the dose of your painkillers or change the way you take them. Or they may suggest switching to a different painkiller.
If your pain isn’t under control, it may help to have a specialist palliative care or supportive care review. Your GP or hospital team can refer you for this. Read about palliative care and supportive care.
“ You don’t have to endure pain without help or medication. You don’t have to put up with it."
Questions to ask your doctor or nurse
- Can you explain how and when I should take painkillers?
- What side effects might I get?
- Should I take anything to prevent side effects?
- Will other medicines affect my pain relief?
- How will these painkillers affect my daily life?
- Can I drive if I’m taking opioid painkillers?
- What should I do if the pain doesn’t get better or gets worse?
Speak to our nurses
Updated April 2025
To be reviewed April 2028