Neuropathy is a condition where nerves that deliver pain signals from the brain become damaged. The distorted messages to the brain can deliver a variety of symptoms such as a numbing or tingling sensations, sensitivity to touch and burning pain. While there is no cure for , therapies can minimize the pain.
Causes
Neuropathy can be acquired through injury, deficiency in nutrients, alcoholism and tumors. Physical trauma or injury is the most common cause of nerve damage such as auto accidents, sports injuries and falls. Broken bones or slipped disks in the vertebra can press on surrounding nerves causing pressure and pain. Diabetics are prone to neuropathy in the legs or feet because high blood sugar levels damage the nerves especially in those areas. Certain vitamins such as vitamin E and the B Complex vitamins are needed for healthy nerve functions so lacking in these vitamins can lead to nerve damage. Alcoholism deletes the body of thiamine and without it will cause nerve pain in the extremities. Autoimmune disorders and infections can lead to neuropathy. HIV, shingles, Epstein-Barr virus are a few of the disorders that can affect the nervous system.
Diagnosis
A neurological exam is needed to produce an adequate diagnosis. A complete patient history and blood tests are first needed to see proceed. A CT scan or MRI will be the next procedure. This allows the neurologist to see images of organs, bones and tissue. An EMG is a process of inserting a needle into the muscle. The test shows if there is damage to the muscle or to the surrounding nerve. A skin biopsy involves taking a thin skin sample and examining the nerve fibers. The test is easy to perform and can show damage in smaller nerve fibers.
Treatment
The first line of treatment is forming healthy habits such as eating healthier and an exercise regime. Certain exercises can strengthen muscles and reduce cramps. Adding vitamins and avoiding alcohol and smoking can help the side of effects of neuropathy. Diabetics need to keep close watch on their blood glucose levels as strict control can lead to less pain in the legs and feet. Mild neuropathy pain can be handled by over the counter pain medications. But for more severe cases anti-epileptic and antidepressants may be prescribed for treatment. Topical patches with lidocaine have also been used for pain. Hand or foot braces can help with muscle weakness and orthopedic shoes improve foot pain. Surgical procedures are normally the last form of treatment but can help in those with compression injuries. The surgery reduces pressure on the nerves leading to less or no pain.
Tags: cause nerve, legs feet, less pain, nerve damage, nerve fibers, neuropathy pain