Brain damage

Hey, my partner is currently going through lung cancer, luckily they say the chemotherapy is shrinking the tumour albeit slowly, the problem now is, he is poorly with severe neurological problems, the doctors say it hasn't spread to the brain but they think the cancer is causing the issue, it's a waiting game to see the final diagnosis, has anyone else experienced this and could offer any input on if it's temporary. Thanks 

  • Hello and thank you for your post. I am sorry to hear of your partner's situation. Going through chemotherapy can be tough and make people poorly. But because I am not involved in his care I do not know what type of neurological problems your partner has.

    Your partner's doctors have said the cancer could be causing neurological problems and it looks like they are looking to see why this is happening. This might because the cancer is pressing on nerves or an organ that could be causing these symptoms. A specific type of lung cancer called small cell lung cancer (I don't know if this is the type of cancer he has)  can sometime cause neurological problems. If this is the case then treatment can shrink the cancer and hopefully lessen these symptoms.

    Some types of chemotherapy used to treat lung cancer can affect the nerves and cause a condition called peripheral neuropathy.  This causes symptoms such as pain, and a numb feeling and can particularly affect the feet and hands. Sometimes it can cause a problem with using the limbs. This can get better over time, once the treatment has stopped.  

    I hope you both know more soon about what is causing these symptoms. Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take care,

    Caroline ,