Forum Discussion

Annabannana's avatar
Annabannana
Member
1 month ago

Neuropathy- need some moral support

Hi all,

I had one dose taxol and 2 doses herceptin. They have since put treatment on hold 3 weeks ago due to neuropathy in feet and legs (I was borderline for needing it anyway). 
Im now in a vicious cycle or spiralling anxiety and worsening symptoms, despite them only being mild to begin with. I’ve upped my antidepressants which will hopefully kick in soon. But I’m so scared that this is going to be permanent. I get zapping, tingling and varying numbness. Some days are good, where I barely notice, and other days, like today, it feels debilitating. 
I guess I’m looking for some good news stories or tips on what worked physically or mentally to help get you through this. 
many thanks,

Anna 

anxiety
peripheral neuropathy

2 Replies

  • Mez_BCNA's avatar
    Mez_BCNA
    Community Manager
    1 month ago

    Hi Annabannana​ - thankyou so much for sharing what must be a very difficult time right now. Hopefully you find great support here via our Online Network.

    It's completely understandable to feel impacted by the changes peripheral neuropathy it can bring. We wanted to  share a few resources below that you may find helpful as you navigate this:

    🔹 BCNA’s My Journey BCNA has clear, easy‑to-read information about Peripheral neuropathy, why it happens, and ways to manage symptoms.

    🔹 Podcast: Listen to Podcast: Peripheral Neuropathy This podcast offers practical guidance and lived experiences, which many people find reassuring and informative.

    🔹 eviQ Factsheet –Peripheral neuropathy during cancer treatment
    A reliable factsheet explaining causes, symptoms, and strategies for coping with nerve changes during treatment.

    If you’d like help exploring any of these or want to talk through what you’re experiencing, please feel free to reach out 1800 500 258 or connect in with your breast care nurse.

  • GorgyS's avatar
    GorgyS
    Member
    1 month ago

    Hi Anna

    I can not share any good news, as I feel the same as you. Some days are good, some days are bad. What really helps me is taking off my shoes or house slippers and resting. It also helps me when I ignore it and keep myself preoccupied with some 'distractions' such as swimming or light housework or painting. However, for me it is important to rest between activities. I developed neuropathy after my treatment is finished (chemo and radiation). As I am on hormone blockers, Letrozole and additional medication to complement hormone blockers called Abemaciclib, I believe that all of this together contributed to the development neuropathy in my feet. I do not have neuropathy in my hands, otherwise I would be breaking anything I hold. I also developed lymphoedema so there are a few issues I have been dealing with. But to go through all of this, I have to keep positive. I always report this to my oncologist who wanted to put me on some medication for neuropathy that I refused as I am already taking so many meds. I hope there will be some more positive responses to your question.