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PAIN

Pain can be caused by all treatments for cancer and by the cancer itself. Pain varies depending on the individual and type of treatment. For example, some patients have relatively little discomfort with lumpectomy and require mild analgesics medication. Others may have moderate to severe pain after mastectomy and reconstruction that require stronger medication. Speak to your doctor as the plan for post-operative pain is best individualized between clinicians and patients with regular monitoring for pain relief. Good communication is essential to getting continuous relief for any pain you may experience due to breast cancer or its treatment. The nature of your pain can change over time, and this may require a change in your treatment.

Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy 

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Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a common and significant side effect experienced by some cancer patients. It is caused by certain chemotherapy drugs, including taxanes, platinum compounds, vinca alkaloids, and others. This condition results in nerve damage, leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness, primarily in the hands and feet.​

 

Common signs include:

  • Numbness

  • Tingling

  • Pain, particularly in hand and feet

  • Cold sensitivity

  • Discomfort swallowing cold liquids

  • Muscle cramps​

 

Neuropathy often affects the upper and/or lower limbs, impacting daily activities and quality of life.​

 

When does it happen:

Symptoms of CIPN usually appear within the first two months of treatment, and can occur due to chemotherapy type, dose, and duration. Risk factors may include predisposing factors such as demographics, genetics, comorbidities, depression, and lack of physical activity.​

 

Treatment options:

 

Pharmacological:

  • NSAIDs

  • Acetaminophen (paracetamol)

  • Adjuvant analgesics​

  • selected antidepressants (e.g., venlafaxine)

  • selected anticonvulsants (e.g., gabapentin and pregabalin)​

 

Non-pharmacological:

  • Acupuncture

  • Exercise

    • Sensorimotor training

  • ​Compression therapy using surgical gloves

  • Cryotherapy

    • Frozen gloves and socks

 

​​​It is important to take safety precautions as the decreased feeling in your hands and feet may increase the risk of injury.

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