Q. Do women get phantom limb syndrome after a mastectomy?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Yes, absolutely. Phantom limb syndrome following a mastectomy is an extremely common occurrence that affects many women who have undergone the procedure. In fact, studies indicate that up to 90 percent of women experience phantom limb pain and other symptoms after having a mastectomy.

Phantom limb syndrome is the sensation of feeling a presence in the area where an amputated or removed body part used to be located. It can include sensations such as burning, itching, tingling, cramping and “phantom” pain in areas where breasts (or any other limbs) have been removed due to cancer treatment or another medical condition. This feeling can sometimes even extend further than the original site of removal - for example if a breast was removed from one side of your chest you may feel phantom pains on both sides!

The exact cause of phantom limb syndrome following a mastectomy is unknown but it has been suggested that nerve damage caused by surgery may play a role in its development. Some research also points to psychological factors such as coping with loss and anxiety surrounding body image which may contribute towards this condition. It's likely there are multiple contributing factors involved when it comes to phantom limb syndrome following lumpectomy and mastectomy surgeries - as well as other types of cancer treatments/amputations too!

Thankfully there are several effective ways to help manage pain associated with this phenomenon; including physical therapy interventions (such as massage), relaxation techniques like yoga/meditation, medications prescribed by your doctor (including anticonvulsants & antidepressants) and more recently potentially even transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy (TMS). Of course all treatment should be discussed thoroughly with your physician first before deciding what's best for you!

It's important to remember that although it might seem daunting at first; dealing with something like this isn't easy but many people have successfully managed their phantom limb discomfort so don’t lose hope – help is out there if you look for it :)

Read Answer Right Arrow
Q. Hello Doctor, from past 3 weeks I have too much dandruff problem and it cause hair loss will you suggest any best solution for this?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Dealing with excessive dandruff leading to hair loss can be frustrating, but there are effective ways to address this issue. Here's what you can do:

1. Switch to a Gentle Shampoo: Opt for shampoos specifically designed for dandruff, containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or selenium sulfide. Use these shampoos regularly to reduce dandruff buildup.

2. Scalp Massage: Gently massage your scalp while shampooing to help remove flakes and improve blood circulation, which can promote healthier hair growth.

3. Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can dry out your scalp and worsen dandruff.

4. Balanced Diet: Ensure you're eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair and scalp, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins.

5. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate dandruff problems. Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise to help manage stress levels.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Consider using diluted apple cider vinegar as a rinse after shampooing. It can help restore the scalp's pH balance and reduce dandruff.

7. Consult a Dermatologist: If the issue persists despite trying home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, seek advice from a dermatologist. They can provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific scalp condition.

Remember, consistency is key when dealing with dandruff. Give these remedies some time to work, as immediate results might not always occur. It's essential to find what works best for your scalp, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate improvements.

Taking care of your scalp health not only addresses dandruff but also aids in reducing hair loss associated with this issue. Feel free to incorporate these tips into your routine and observe how your scalp responds. If the problem persists or worsens, seeking professional guidance is always recommended.

See all

Live Doctor consultation
Live Doctor Chat

Looking for expert medical advice and care can be a daunting task, especially when you need it urgently. But with Second Medic, you can connect with the best doctors in just a few minutes and have a private care conversation with them, all for free!

Our platform is designed to make it easy for you to get the medical advice and care you need without any hassle. Whether you have a minor health concern or a serious medical condition, our team of experienced doctors are here to help.

At Second Medic, we understand the importance of timely and reliable medical advice. That's why we've made it our mission to provide you with the best possible care, at the convenience of your own home.

Our platform is easy to use, and you can connect with a doctor in just a few simple steps. All you need to do is create an account, tell us about your health concern, and we'll match you with a doctor who has the expertise to help you.

You can then have a private care conversation with your doctor, where you can discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any other concerns you may have. Our doctors will then provide you with expert advice and guidance on the next steps to take.

So, whether you're looking for medical advice, a second opinion, or a prescription refill, Second Medic has got you covered. With our platform, you can get the care you need, when you need it, all for free!

Download Our App & Get Consultation from anywhere.

App Download