Nerve Damage from Nephrectomy

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Lbkelley
Lbkelley Member Posts: 3 Member
in Kidney Cancer #1

Hi there: 13 weeks after my Nephrectomy, I am still experiencing significant pain. I was referred to a pain specialist and was diagnosed with extensive nerve damage. I have been on a nerve blocker for a few weeks, which has helped, but I am certain the dosage has to be increased. The pain is debilitating and keeps me immobile. I am so thankful to be alive but I wonder if I will ever regain a sense of what my life was like before the surgery. Have others experience or are experiencing anything similar?

Thank you

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  • eug91
    eug91 Member Posts: 471 Member
    #2
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    Hi lbkelley-

    First off, congrats on getting through your nephrectomy. Despite the pain and nerve damage, hopefully your body is healing well.

    While I didn't have a similar issue to what you're describing, please bring it up with your doctor. Communication is so important in these cases - especially with the added pressure on doctors to not over-prescribe medication. Talk to your doctor about the issue.

    As for regaining a sense of what life was like before surgery, keep in mind that you're only 13 weeks out from surgery. It may seem like a long time, but your body has been through a bit and it can take time for it to get back all the way. It's a different length of time for everyone, but eventually your body will refamiliarize itself with what is "normal". Here's hoping it'll be soon for you.

    Good luck! You've got this!

  • brandydad
    brandydad Member Posts: 1 *
    #3
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    Does anyone know about the pill chemotherapy and what is to be expected

  • Lbkelley
    Lbkelley Member Posts: 3 Member
    #4
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    https://csn.cancer.org/discussion/comment/1709603#Comment_1709603

    Thanks so much, eug91. I am so thankful I found this community. I was in a dark place for such a long time. I’ve had a tough time not recognizing my body and the shell that now exist. I realize I have to give myself grace and allow my body time to fully heal. I am meeting my Nephrologist next week and will surely bring it up. Thanks for taking a minute share your experience and offer words of encouragement. Very much appreciated.

    warm regards,

    lbkell

  • eug91
    eug91 Member Posts: 471 Member
    #5
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    https://csn.cancer.org/discussion/comment/1709608#Comment_1709608

    This community is wonderful for that. You're not alone. We've been through the same process, so we know what you're going through - so we know you're going to do great.

  • Lbkelley
    Lbkelley Member Posts: 3 Member
    #6
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    https://csn.cancer.org/discussion/comment/1709623#Comment_1709623

    Thanks again, my friend. So glad to know I am not alone.

    Warm regards,

    lbkells

  • Tobi
    Tobi Member Posts: 61 Member
    #7
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    I had this very thing happen to me. I had a lapro procedure to remove my kidney in Aug of 2021 and was in severe pain for weeks after. It felt like burning in the skin and in the deeper layers it was a slow traveling electrical shock that I felt was like lightening. It's hard to explain unless you experience it! I will tell you that in my case it did eventually stop. I do hope that yours gets better soon, it is a horrible and life changing pain (at least in my case it was). I did find that ice does help. When the pain would get severe I would put it directly on the spot that was flaring up and it would short circuit impulses causing the problem, may it would give you some relief too.

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