Certain chemotherapies can bring on sensory disturbances in the hands and feet. Common symptoms are tingling (“pins and needles”) and numbness in the fingertips, hands and feet.
The sensory disturbances are caused by nerve damage. In most cases, the sensory disturbances gradually resolve after the end of treatment, but sometimes not completely.
At present, there are no directly effective drugs with which this nerve damage could be treated. However, the symptoms can sometimes be reduced if the dose of the cancer treatment drugs is reduced. Therefore, tell the doctor if you are suffering from sensory disturbances.
• Mild sensory disturbances
Be aware of reduced sensation in your hands and feet and take care accordingly during daily activities such as chopping vegetables.
The sense of hot and cold is diminished. There is therefore the risk of frostbite or burning if extreme cold or heat is applied.
The risk of tripping over objects such as loose rugs, door thresholds and kerbstones, for example, may be higher.
Abnormal sensations, primarily in your hands and feet
Numbness, for example numb fingers
Pins and needles
Difficulties with fine movements, for example buttoning clothes or writing
Hypersensitivity to touch
Loss of balance and unsteady gait
Physiotherapie oder Ergotherapie
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