Peripheral Neuropathy
What is Peripheral Neuropathy?
Going through breast cancer treatment is already demanding, both physically and emotionally. On top of everything else, you may start to notice unfamiliar sensations like tingling, numbness, or weakness in your hands or feet. These may be signs of peripheral neuropathy, which happens when the peripheral nerves (the ones farthest from your brain and spinal cord) are damaged. When this is caused by chemotherapy, it’s called chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, or CIPN.
While chemotherapy is the most common cause during treatment, other factors like diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, alcohol use, or neurologic conditions can make symptoms worse. Even though peripheral neuropathy can be frustrating or even alarming, there are treatments and lifestyle changes that can help you manage it safely.
How Is It Diagnosed?
If you think you might have peripheral neuropathy, talk to your doctor. They may:
- Take a medical history and listen to your symptoms
- Watch how you walk
- Check your reflexes, strength, and ability to feel touch, temperature, or pain
- Order more tests if needed
Common Symptoms
- Tingling, numbness, or burning sensations
- Weakness or cramping
- Difficulty sensing hot and cold
- Trouble picking up or holding items
- Balance issues or difficulty walking
How Long Does It Last?
Peripheral Neuropathy may begin during treatment and worsen over time. Often symptoms will improve in the weeks or months after treatment. However, sometimes it can become a long-term issue, but symptoms can still be managed
Who Can Help?
Your cancer care team may connect you with:
- Palliative care experts – for comprehensive symptom management
- Physical therapists – for strength, balance, and mobility
- Occupational therapists – for help with daily tasks and tools
- Rehabilitation specialists – for braces or mobility aids
- Social workers/resource specialists – to find and afford assistive devices
Everyday Self-Care Tips
Prevent Falls
Protect Hands and Feet
Be Cautious
Ask for Help
The below video discusses more about chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), one of the most common cancer treatment-related complications. Learn about the causes, symptoms, risk factors, and treatments for CIPN.
When to Call Your Care Team
Reach out if:
- Tingling or numbness is new or getting worse
- Balance or coordination becomes more difficult
- Everyday tasks feel unsafe
- Symptoms are affecting your quality of life
Early reporting can help your team adjust treatment to lower the chance of long-term nerve damage. Watch this video on Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy to learn more about managing symptoms and protecting yourself during treatment.
