Carmel Nail: I was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent a mastectomy and started chemotherapy. I am somebody who helps people through these processes and problems, and then here I am having to deal with it, firsthand.
Jennifer Matthews: To help her deal with it, Carmel Nail, a nurse, joined a study at the University of Virginia to treat the side effects of breast cancer therapy.
Dr. Debra Lyon: There is a pretty high incidence of psychiatric symptoms such as depression and anxiety.
Jennifer Matthews: Nurse Researcher Debra Lyon says sleep disturbances and fatigue are also common. Now, she is studying cranial micro-current electrical stimulation for relief.
Dr. Debra Lyon: It works much as a homeostatic regulatory type of therapy. We're not changing the current or the energy field in the body, except to re-normalize it.
Jennifer Matthews: For one hour a day, women attach these ear clips that send a micro-current to the brain. They activate pathways that relieve symptoms. Carmel has finished the study, but she is still receiving chemotherapy.
Carmel Nail: I do experience a little more anxiety, just day-to-day, related to the chemo. I felt probably a little more relaxed while I was utilizing the stimulator device.
Jennifer Matthews: Debra hopes the device will be an effective alternative for women.
Debra Lyon: My hopes go back to the passion that made me become a nurse in the first place. I want to take care of people and help people to feel better.
Jennifer Matthews: This is Jennifer Matthews reporting.
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