Orlando Pain After Chemotherapy Specialists

Pain after chemotherapy is a common side effect that many cancer patients have to deal with. This type of pain, known as chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), can be difficult to manage. One treatment option that is gaining popularity is ketamine infusions.

What Is Pain After Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy?

Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN) occurs when the nerves in the body are damaged by certain types of chemotherapy drugs. These drugs can cause damage to the nerve fibers that carry messages from the brain to other parts of the body, resulting in symptoms such as numbness, burning, tingling, or a pins-and-needles feeling in the hands and feet. As well as these physical symptoms, patients may also experience fatigue, sleep disturbances, anxiety, depression, and difficulty concentrating.

What Are Ketamine Infusions?

Ketamine infusions are a relatively new treatment option for patients suffering from CIPN. The drug ketamine has been used in medical settings for decades as an anesthetic agent, but it has recently been found to have potential therapeutic benefits for treating chronic pain conditions such as CIPN. When administered via IV infusion over some time, ketamine can block pain signals and reduce inflammation in the affected areas of the body. This reduces pain levels while also improving mood and quality of life. It’s important to note that ketamine infusions are not yet approved by the FDA for treating CIPN specifically; however, they may be prescribed off-label if other treatments have proven ineffective or intolerable.

Are There Side Effects From Ketamine Infusions?

As with any medication or treatment, there can be some side effects associated with ketamine infusions. These include nausea and vomiting, dizziness or lightheadedness, increased heart rate or blood pressure, confusion or disorientation, blurred vision, and changes in mood or behavior. It’s important to discuss any concerns you may have about potential side effects with your doctor before starting treatment with ketamine infusions.

Summary

Pain after chemotherapy neuropathy can be extremely difficult to manage due to its neurological nature; however, there is hope! Ketamine infusions offer an alternative treatment option that may provide relief from CIPN symptoms without causing too many side effects – something many cancer patients don’t find with traditional treatments like opioids and anti-inflammatory drugs. If you think you might benefit from ketamine infusions for your CIPN symptoms talk to your doctor today about whether this treatment could be right for you!