What's that Tingling?

For individuals going through cancer treatment, there may be a host of challenges related to surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Hair loss and fatigue are well know side effects of chemotherapy, but the list is longer than that. One of the more common ones and yet seemingly lesser known is peripheral neuropathy. This ailment in cancer patients, which results in damage to the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord, is most often caused by chemo drugs. However, it may be caused by surgery or radiation and in cases unrelated to cancer, it may result from conditions such as diabetes. Neuropathy may persist after cancer treatment ends or it may be a temporary condition. There is no way of determining who will have to cope with this condition for the long-term. It is important to address it with your doctor as soon as you notice any signs, as early treatment may help you to control or decrease the possible nerve damage. Any of the following symptoms in the extremities may be a sign of neuropathy and should be discussed with your physician should they arise.

- weakness
- muslce loss
- loss of feeling in a particular area
- reduction in reflex responses
- a burning sensation
- tingling sensation in the extremities
- sharp, shooting or electric shock like pain
- pain from something that would not normally cause pain, like stroking the skin
- abnormally level of pain that would otherwise be mild

Less common symptoms:
- dizziness
- loss of balance

This can be a very troublesome side effect for many patients and there are things that can be done to help ease the discomfort. Avoiding extreme temperatures, always wearing shoes and slippers for protection and getting off your feet when the pain esclates are a few of options to keep you more comfortable. If balance has become an issue, physical therapy is a key treatment to stimulate the nerve pathways that have been compromised. With many, the lack of sensation can become a safety issue so be very careful of sharp objects and the surfaces you are moving on.

While this may be a difficult condition to treat, there are nutrition supplements and dietary measures that may lessen the degree of progression. Staying clear of alcohol is a good idea for those who suffer from neuropathy as alcohol damages nerves, particularly if the nerves have been exposed to chemo drugs. Also, controlling your blood sugar levels can be of great benefit due to the toxic effect of sugar on the nerves. Aside from this, these two health practices are highly recommended for increased survivorship for individuals who have had a diagnosis of cancer. Ask your doctor about certain vitamins and other supplements that have been used in the treatment of peripheral neuropathy to see if they can decrease your symptoms. Another treatment option may be available to you through some cancer rehabilitation programs. An electronic pain treatment device called a Rebuilder uses an electronic pulse to stimulate the nerves in the legs or arms. This treatment has been successful in over 50 percent of the patients who have been treated.

If you have been affected by this condition or your symptoms could indicate a possible concern, contact your doctor or e-mail our clinic for more information about treatment options.

wellness@healthlinksclinic.com