The lesser talked about side effects

So the lesser talked about side effects. First one is exhaustion, after awhile you don't know if it is from the lingering pain or the pain killers. But it is permanent. Some days when the pain killers that you take on a daily basis aren't enough, you go to the back up one, but you are already tired out from the dealing with the pain that hasn't been quieted so to get sleep you take the opioid or cbd or whatever you are trying to get relief. You don't want to get up the next day because if you took the opioid you are groggy, you are worn down from the day before still and really just want to take a day to recoup.

The other less talked about side effect, gastroenterology issues. And by that I mean everything from nausea, heart burn and vomiting to diarrhea, gas, cramps and constipation. Depending on the meds you are taking, pain control meds, chemo either as infusions or oral tablets, and sometimes radiation therapy will all have their own lovely fun to add. Usually the pain medications will cause constipation, which will also make you cramp and sometimes cause a fecal impaction if it is not counteracted with fiber and lots of fluids, doesn't always prevent it but it can help. 

Depending on where the tumor is located this constipation becomes another source of pain. I personally have my tumor in my abdominal muscle, which means if I try to work through my constipation it hurts even more. At times I feel like my tumor is interfering with my ability to eat certain foods, bread products in particular are a constant reminder that the stomach needs room to expand. I try not to indulge in any normal bread product more than once a week if that. Pasta causes less of an issue, but it can be too much. 

These are the fun less talked about side effects from having a tumor, or anything really which puts you on daily pain treatment. It's also the less talked about side effects of experimental treatments. Know that we are all going through it, one way or another or multiple ways.