Continuous muscle/nerve spasms?

Dear Nettywill

Thanks for getting in touch and welcome to the Online Community. I’m Penelope one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists  on the Macmillan Support Line. I am sorry to hear that you are having continuous muscle and nerve spasms. That does sound exhausting on top of recovering from surgery as well.

With any new, worsening or changing symptoms we would always recommend you contact the hospital team looking after you, your GP or 111. Please do report any symptoms of concern, even if you feel that they are already aware it is also important to report symptoms that do not go away.

You mention that it is a very physical sensation, sometimes anxiety can show in physical form. A diagnosis of cancer can be very overwhelming. You may like to look at our information on cancer and your emotions which describes physical symptoms of feelings.

If the doctors and nurses feel that it is related to anxiety and stress I wonder if they have made any recommendations to help manage this. You may like to try some relaxation or breathing exercises to see if they help at all.

Some cancer support centres offer relaxation classes or complementary therapies. You can see if there is anything in your area or look at online resources here.

It is entirely natural to feel anxious and stressed during and after cancer treatment.  Whilst I cannot say for sure that managing this will help with your muscle spasms, supporting your general wellbeing can be very beneficial in coping with difficult times. If you would like to talk this through, then please do give us a call on the number below.

Best wishes

Penelope Cancer Information Nurse Specialist 

You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or email us. 

Ref/ SMc