Can chemo cause numbness and vomiting in a 64-year-old lady?

Question

Hello doctor,

My 64-year-old mother-in-law is currently being treated for breast cancer. She experiences vomiting every other day after chemotherapy, even though she is taking anti-nausea medications. Should her anti-nausea medication dosages be increased to manage this better?

She has recently started complaining about numbness in her fingers and toes. Could this be neuropathy? Is there anything specific we can do to prevent neuropathy from getting worse?

The family is considering seeking a second opinion to explore treatments with fewer side effects. Should we continue her current treatment course until then?

Kindly help!

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Chemotherapy for testicular cancer, side effects like nausea and neuropathy can be challenging, but proper management can improve her quality of life.

Managing nausea:

If your mother-in-law is still vomiting every other day despite taking anti-nausea medications, her current regimen may not be strong enough or correctly timed. She should speak to her oncologist about:

Increasing the dosage or switching to stronger antiemetics.
Using a combination of medications (for example, Ondansetron + Dexamethasone + Aprepitant) instead of a single drug.
Taking the medication before nausea starts rather than after symptoms appear.
Lifestyle adjustments, including small, frequent meals and staying hydrated.

Addressing neuropathy:

Numbness in her fingers and toes could be chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, which may worsen over time. To help manage this:

Vitamin B6 and B12 supplements may support nerve health.
Cold therapy (using cold packs on hands and feet during chemo) can reduce nerve damage.
Gentle exercise & physical therapy help maintain circulation and muscle function.
Medications like Gabapentin or Duloxetine may be needed if symptoms worsen.

Seeking a second opinion:

If the family is considering a second opinion, it is a good step to explore other treatment options with potentially fewer side effects. However, she should not stop her current treatment abruptly, as this could allow the cancer to progress. If an alternative plan, such as targeted therapy or immunotherapy, is recommended, adjustments can be made accordingly.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer.

If you have any more questions, feel free to contact me.

Thank you.