Insane itching from Paclitaxel - peripheral neuropathy - pls help

It is always difficult to know what to do.  We all react differently.  I would suggest you contact your BCN in the first instance.  Obviously it is a worry.

A chat with the MacMillan help line might give you some ideas as well.

All the best 

Hi Jessica

I had paclitaxel as part of my chemo for endometrial cancer in 2022.

I developed peripheral neuropathy during treatment and it persisted despite dose reductions. 

I did have some skin itching and was given anti histamines for this. I don't think this was part of the neuropathy though. 

The neuropathy symptoms I had were numbness, pain, tingling, pins and needles. Burning sensations.

This link has some advice,

Dealing with itching | Coping with cancer | Cancer Research UK

Perhaps give the Support Line a call and speak to one of the nurses who may be able to suggest somethings that may help.

Jane

Thank you Jane. Did it eventually subside or do you still deal with it? How long did it take? Thank you

The skin effects resolved within a few days each time. 

The peripheral neuropathy is still there unfortunately. Keeping active can help. I also had a physio assessment. Exercises and anything that gets blood flowing to the areas seem to help a bit. I have not found any creams that make a difference. 

Today I have been for a short walk to the shops- my legs from the knee down feel achy and crampy, my feet feel like tingly sensations. My hands have pins and needles. The sensation on my legs are almost like when you wear tight boots. Hard to explain. 

It can get better for some people once treatment has stopped but it is unfortunately a known side effect for some types of chemo. 

Yeah, I can't really walk very far without it setting off an attach of wild itchiness but I don't really know how I can live life like this if it doesn't stop. At the moment I'm mainly sofa bound as even a bit of walking sets it off. I'm 38 so it feels kinda scary

Hiya

right with you. I am on round 14 now of 16 and I am day 4 after infusion and itching. Two things helping me 1. Antihistamine 2. hydrochloride cream ️ sending all my love this journey it rough! I have really itchy swollen eyes too. 

I’m 41! This too shall pass my lovely. I had 12 rounds and just 2 left now and I promise you you can do this ️

Hello I had severe skin rash over legs and arms after first infusion of Paclitaxel & Carboplatin. Unfortunately antihistamines didn’t help. I phoned chemo hotline and was given 5 days of Predniserone  which did the trick. I have been given creams for skin now which I rub in each night after showering. I totally get where you’re coming from it is very uncomfortable. 

I have been trying the ice packs from Amazon for feet & hands to try and help with neuropathy. I must say I was ice cold with the cold cap on plus hands and feet iced but it’s worth a try. It ain’t easy! 

Thank you xx