Nervous System Changes

What they are and why they occur

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.