FACTORS WHICH MODIFY THE PERCEPTION OF PAIN: SPIRITUAL CONCERNS
Every human being, whether religious or not, has their own unique spirituality. Spirituality encompasses the purpose and meaning of an individual's existence. Problems related to spiritual concerns occur frequently in patients with cancer, especially advanced disease. Problems may relate to the meaning or value of their life, regrets or guilt about matters past, feelings of anger or injustice, and questions about suffering or the mysteries of death.
Patients who observe particular religious practices may have spiritual problems relating to their religion. People who have let their religious practices lapse may wish to reaffirm their beliefs. Religious persons who consider their disease a punishment or betrayal may have difficulty continuing their practices; alternatively, they may have unrealistic belief in the power of their church or religion which can interfere with appropriate management of their pain.
Spiritual problems have a profound effect on the perception of pain. They are easily overlooked or ignored. Major spiritual and religious problems are uncommon but can cause severe pain which responds poorly to analgesics.
• Unrecognised spiritual or religious problems are occasionally the cause of severe unrelieved pain.
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