Hina Khan, renowned for her roles in television, recently shared a deeply personal aspect of her battle with cancer. In a heartfelt Instagram video, the actress provided an intimate look at her experience with chemotherapy-induced neuropathy. Despite heavy rainfall in Mumbai, Khan made her way to the gym, underscoring her commitment to staying active amid the challenges. Her message was clear: exercise is not just a physical activity but a vital part of her mental and emotional resilience.
"I face severe neuropathic pain during my chemotherapy sessions, which often makes my legs and feet numb," Khan revealed. "Sometimes, while working out, I lose control of my legs and fall, but I focus on getting back up. My strength, spirit, and willpower define me, not the falls I experience." Khan's candidness about her struggles serves as a beacon of inspiration for many undergoing similar battles.
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Understanding Peripheral Neuropathy and Chemotherapy
As per Dr Somnath Gupta, Consultant Physician and Diabetologist, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad, peripheral neuropathy is a condition where the peripheral nervous system, responsible for transmitting signals between the central nervous system and other body parts, suffers damage. This damage can result in symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, and balance problems, typically affecting the hands, feet, legs, and arms.
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Chemotherapy and Peripheral Neuropathy
Cancer treatments, especially chemotherapy, are well-known culprits behind neuropathy. Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) affects approximately 30-40% of cancer patients undergoing treatment. This condition often manifests as pain, tingling, or numbness in the extremities, making daily activities and physical movement challenging.
The mechanism behind CIPN involves the destruction of nerve fibres by chemotherapy drugs, which can interfere with their ability to send normal signals to the brain. This damage can lead to both sensory and motor issues, impacting a patient’s quality of life.
Managing Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathy
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Medication and Drug Management
Currently, there is no universal medication for neuropathy caused by chemotherapy. However, certain drugs are being tested to counteract nerve damage. The effectiveness of these treatments often depends on the specific chemotherapy drug used. A 2014 review in Cancer Management and Research highlighted that while some medications show promise, more research is needed to determine their overall efficacy.
Neuromodulation Techniques
Neuromodulation involves modifying how the brain processes nerve sensations. Although still in experimental stages, techniques such as neurofeedback, scrambler therapy, and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) have shown potential in alleviating neuropathic pain. These treatments aim to alter pain perception and provide relief.
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Adjusting Chemotherapy Dosage
When symptoms become severe, reducing the chemotherapy dose may be necessary. Oncologists might recommend lowering the dose or adjusting the treatment schedule to minimise neuropathy while still effectively treating cancer.
Topical Treatments and Lotions
Topical treatments can offer temporary relief from neuropathic pain. Mild creams, such as those containing cocoa butter or menthol, might help soothe affected areas. Regularly massaging these areas can also provide symptomatic relief.
Exercise and Physical Activity
Exercise has been shown to improve symptoms of CIPN. Activities like swimming, low-impact aerobics, and yoga can enhance blood flow and potentially reduce pain and numbness. Patients should consult with their healthcare providers to tailor an exercise regimen that suits their condition.
Massage Therapy
Massage therapy can improve blood circulation and alleviate pain. For those experiencing CIPN, massage can help release muscle tension and reduce discomfort. Research presented at the 2016 Palliative Care in Oncology Symposium found that massage therapy offered significant relief for some patients with CIPN.
Bottomline
Hina Khan’s openness about her struggle with severe neuropathic pain during chemotherapy not only sheds light on the realities of cancer treatment but also highlights the importance of resilience and self-care. While managing chemotherapy-induced neuropathy poses significant challenges, a combination of medical treatments, lifestyle adjustments, and supportive therapies can provide relief and improve quality of life. For those navigating similar paths, drawing strength from personal stories and exploring various management strategies can offer hope and guidance through their journey.