Neuropathic Pain

Neuropathic pain occurs as a result of damage to the peripheral or central nervous system. In patients with cancer, this malfunction is usually the result of toxicities from certain kinds of cancer treatments or a tumor pressing on a nerve.

Your nervous system is composed of the following.

When some part of this system sends pain messages because of pressure on the nerves, then you get neuropathic pain.

Develops over time

Neuropathic pain usually develops over time, so you may not notice any changes until you find that you can't hold onto objects as well as you did before, you have some trouble buttoning a shirt, you stumble over your own feet, or you experience other decreases in abilities.

Dose-limiting symptoms

Neuropathic pain can be caused by certain cancer treatments.  It is important to ask your oncology doctor or nurse if the treatment you are receiving causes neuropathic pain.  The severity of symptoms often is directly related to the dose and duration of the cancer treatment. After the treatment ends, the side effects often start to diminish. However, they can linger long afterwards. In addition, other medical conditions, such as diabetes, autoimmune disorders, liver and kidney problems, metabolic disorders, and some infectious diseases, can complicate certain types of neuropathic pain.

Pressure on nerves

When a tumor or mass puts pressure on nerves, you may feel a shooting or burning pain. Cancer treatments that remove the tumor or make it smaller can help relieve this pain. Decreasing inflammation or swelling also may help relieve some of this pain. There also are specific medications that relieve neuropathic pain.

This is why it's important to tell your oncology nurse or doctor if you are having neuropathic pain. Your healthcare practitioners should evaluate your pain

• At every office visit
• Before you start a treatment
• Regularly during the treatment cycle
• At the end of a treatment
• Whenever a new treatment is considered
• Whenever you report new symptoms.