Neurotoxicity

What is neurotoxicity?

Neurotoxicity is damage to your nervous system caused by exposure to something toxic. Toxins can come from nature (like certain plants) or be made artificially (like medications or chemicals). They change how your nervous system works, which causes damage. Both chemotherapy and radiation can cause neurotoxicity.

Neurotoxic symptoms may start during or soon after treatment, or show up months to years after treatment. Symptoms early in treatment usually get better on their own. Late symptoms may be permanent. If you get both chemotherapy and radiation, your risk of neurotoxicity may be increased.

Neurotoxicity can show up in many ways. Symptoms can be

• Anxiety.
• Confusion.
• Depression.
• Having a hard time concentrating.
• A lot of drowsiness.
• Loss of vision, hearing, or taste.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Ringing or other sounds in your ears.
• Seizures.
• Numbness or tingling in your hands and/or feet

How is it treated?

Treatment depends on your symptoms but can include medications, physical or occupational therapy, or adjusting your dose of chemotherapy or radiation to reduce the neurotoxic effects.

When should I contact my provider?

Call your provider right away if you have any new or worsening symptoms.