neuropathy

[karaloola]

Age 47- Treated with chemotherapy- Adriamycin, Taxotere, and Taxane and radiation-
Breast cancer- invasive intraductal carcinoma stage one.  Over two years now and still have peripheral neuropathy in feet- making everyday life difficult.  In addition- taking arimidex- makes
my feet and ankles swollen- therefore additional difficulty.  Any suggestions- ???

Have tried- Alpha Lipoic acid- (gives me headaches)

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

Irishgal is in fact right about getting the blood tests done to rule out any vitamin or mineral deficiency as the cause of your symptoms.

It would be best to talk to your doctor about any vitamin or mineral supplements you need to take including vitamin B complex, folic acid, Vitamin D and calcium.

Do let us know how you are doing and what your doctor advises.

Regards.

[Irishgal2]

I thought I too had peripheral neuropathy 4 months after chemo.  However it appears I have a thing called Hypocalciumea i.e. low levels of calcium in my blood.  The parathyroid glands in your neck control the amount of calcium in your bones vs blood.  The sensation was pins and needles feeling lower felt arms and also a little in the feet as well as some weakness in the limbs.  I got blood test done and this is what showed up.  All I needed as calcium supplements and vitamin D.  Maybe when next at your doctor ask him to do blood tests to test your thyroid function (can also be a sympthom of over active thyroid), B12 vitamin, Folic Acid and Calcium levels in your blood.  This is what my doctor ordered.  This may not be your situation at all, but it is worth a shot, it is only a blood test.

Good luck

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

You should consult your oncologist for the side effects that you are having because of the chemotherapy.

If they are sevre then an alteration in drugs or doses would be advisable alongwith adjuvant medications to decrease the symptoms.

Do not change any medications or doses without consultation with your oncologist and also keep him/her aware of the side effects you are having.

Regular follow ups are therefore essential.

Do let us know what your doctor advises.

Regards.