Anyone who is suffering from pain naturally wants the pain to stop. But quite often, a person's understanding of pain and how it is treated can get in the way of that goal. People might be reluctant to report pain because they think they will be judged; or they are concerned they will become addicted to prescription medications; or they believe the side effects of medications will be worse than the pain.
These and similar notions are understandable, but they are usually based on myths and misconceptions. They underestimate the wide range and high effectiveness of current treatment options, as well as the value of good pain relief. Given all the negative effects that pain has on the body and the spirit, good pain treatment is really essential to good health.
See Also:
Eight Facts Everyone Should Know about Cancer Pain (Alliance of State Pain Initiatives, PDF download)