Question: I am a breast cancer survivor and was treated with chemotherapy that left me with mild neuropathy. Can you tell me how I can treat the tingling and numbness I have in both feet?
Dr. Hibberd's Answer:
Neuropathy — abnormal nerve function — from chemotherapy is common and very difficult to manage. The condition can be temporary or permanent. A neurological consultation is advised.
Neuropathy pain usually can be effectively managed by prescription medications (i.e. Lyrica, gabapentin, etc.). The tingling and numbness have no universal remedy I can recommend without more information. Various supplement options may be available to you, but you will need to have a neuropathy evaluation for more specific recommendations.
There are no effective over-the-counter remedies for prevention or treatment of chemotherapy-related neuropathy, but eating fresh fruits and vegetables and taking vitamin supplements is often useful.
Unfortunately for some, neuropathy may be the price to pay for remission or at least reduction of malignant disease.
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