Although some of the signs of neuropathy may appear suddenly, this change in sensation usually builds gradually and can worsen with each additional dose of chemotherapy. It is usually strongest right after a chemo treatment, but tends to lessen just before the next treatment. The symptoms usually peak about 3-5 months after the last dose of treatment is taken. The abnormal sensations may disappear completely, or lessen only partially; they may also involve less of the body. If neuropathy diminishes, it is a gradual process usually requiring several months. However, in some cases it may be irreversible and never diminish in intensity or the area of the body affected.
I had been noticing the numbness in my fingers for a while, but one evening while I was in Tennessee, I was stroking/tickling Captain Adorable's back to help him fall asleep and I noticed that I could not feel his skin beneath my fingers. I can feel with the palms of my hands, but the sensation in my fingers (especially the finger tips) is greatly diminished. I feel sad about this and the idea that I will never again be able to feel the skin of my little son frightens me and makes me sad.
2 comments:
L-glutamine powder completely cured my neuropathy caused by platinum based chemotherapy (carboplatin - as well as taxol and doxil). You have to have the powder, not the pills. Mix a teaspoonful in juice each day. It is an amino acid, and a natural supplement used by weight lifters. If you google it, it is well credited in many cancer patients.
I play piano, and was very distraught at the loss of feeling in my fingers. My first oncologist tried to prescribe me drugs for it, which were no good. When I asked him about L-glutamine, he 'pooh poohed' it, but also said it wouldn't hurt. I am so glad that I followed my gut feeling, and tried it. I have absolutely NO neuropathy now.
L-glutamine, huh? I will have to give it a look!
Post a Comment