Neuropathy and Other Nervous System Changes
Chemotherapy can cause damage to your nervous system. Many nervous system problems get better within a year of when you finish chemotherapy, but some may last the rest of your life. Symptoms may include:
- Tingling, burning, weakness, or numbness in your hands or feet
- Feeling colder than normal
- Pain when walking
- Weak, sore, tired, or achy muscles
- Being clumsy and losing your balance
- Trouble picking up objects or buttoning your clothes
- Shaking or trembling
- Hearing loss
- Stomach pain, such as constipation or heartburn
- Fatigue
- Confusion and memory problems
- Dizziness
- Depression
Ways to manage
- Let your doctor or nurse know right away if you notice any nervous system changes. It is important to treat these problems as soon as possible.
- Be careful when handling knives, scissors, and other sharp or dangerous objects.
- Avoid falling. Walk slowly, hold onto handrails when using the stairs, and put no-slip bath mats in your bathtub or shower. Make sure there are no area rugs or cords to trip over.
- Always wear sneakers, tennis shoes, or other footwear with rubber soles.
- Check the temperature of your bath water with a thermometer. This will keep you from getting burned by water that is too hot.
- Be extra careful to avoid burning or cutting yourself while cooking.
- Wear gloves when working in the garden, cooking, or washing dishes.
- Rest when you need to.
- Steady yourself when you walk by using a cane or other device.
- Talk to your doctor or nurse if you notice memory problems, feel confused, or are depressed.
- Ask your doctor for pain medicine if you need it.
