Yes. The sensations of tingling and numbness in the extremities (i.e., the arms, hands, legs, and feet) and related symptoms are a possible side effect of certain chemotherapy drugs.[1] Termed peripheral neuropathy, this side effect can result from some chemotherapy drugs damaging certain nerves in the body.
For information on types of symptoms of peripheral neuropathy and possible complications, see our Q&A called, "What is peripheral neuropathy?’ The intensity and duration of peripheral neuropathy varies with the different types of chemotherapy drugs, doses, patients, and types of treatment of peripheral neuropathy.[1]
Some patients experience chronic peripheral neuropathy, whereas other patients experience a slow recovery from the condition.[1] Recovery from peripheral neuropathy may be partial or complete.
Prompt management and treatment of peripheral neuropathy is very important to stimulate re-growth (i.e., regeneration) of the damaged nerve, thereby increasing the likelihood and extent of recovery.[1] If you are experiencing symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, notify your oncologist immediately.
To manage peripheral neuropathy by preventing further damage to nerves, one of the following approaches may be taken:[1]
• Immediately changing to a different chemotherapy drug, one that does not have the potential side effect of peripheral neuropathy
• Immediately lowering the dose of the current chemotherapy drug (which had caused the symptom of peripheral neuropathy)
• Immediately interrupting administration of the current chemotherapy drug (which had caused the symptom of peripheral neuropathy)
To treat symptoms of peripheral neuropathy and/or stimulate healing of the damaged nerve, various methods are available, including:[1]
• Acupuncture, which may relieve the pain of certain types of peripheral neuropathy
• Massage therapy, which may relieve the pain of peripheral neuropathy and may increase blood flow to the affected region
• Physical therapy utilizing stretching and range-of-motion exercises, which may improve certain symptoms, including muscle weakness, of peripheral neuropathy
• Transcutaneous nerve stimulation (TENS), which utilizes a device transmitting electrical signals to electrodes that are attached to the outside of the skin. TENS may relieve the pain of peripheral neuropathy and may stimulate the re-growth of nerves.
REFERENCE
1. Managing numbness and tingling (peripheral neuropathy). Accessed at www.chemotherapy.com.
|
is a trademark of HC Search Corporation.
for free.
