Neuropathy is incredibly common. In fact, it impacts more than 3 million Americans every year. This is a condition that is caused by nerve damage and can impact multiple areas of the body. We treat this condition in our office and recommend visiting us for help. Anyone who is unsure if they are suffering from neuropathy needs to have a physician officially diagnose them and make treatment recommendations. This is not something that can be self-diagnosed or treated at home. As such, the first step should always be calling a physician.
Factors leading to damage
Since neuropathy refers to all types of nerve damage, there are many factors that can cause it, based on where in the body the damage occurs. Knowing that, some factors that can contribute to damage include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Diabetes. It is incredibly common for diabetics to suffer from nerve damage and even to require the amputation of feet because of it.
- Exposure to toxins. If someone is exposed to toxins at home or in the workplace, it can lead to nerve damage.
- Infections. Some infections can also lead to long-term nerve damage, it is important to visit the doctor and have problems treated as they arise.
- Working at a computer all day. Carpal tunnel is a form of nerve damage that many office workers suffer from by typing on a computer or working at a desk all day, every day.
- B12 deficiency. Dietary factors can also lead to nerve damage, such as a lack of B12.
- Back injury. If a back injury leads to a pinched nerve, it can cause issues like sciatica pain.
- Thyroid problems. Hypothyroidism has been linked to neuropathy as well.
Symptoms of neuropathy
It is important to visit a physician immediately if these symptoms begin to present themselves. This increases the likelihood of treatment being effective. Some symptoms include:
- Tingling sensations
- Numbness
- Weakness
- The feeling of being pricked with pins and needles
- Lack of sensation
- Limbs constantly falling asleep
- Extreme skin sensitivity
These are just a few of the symptoms that indicate the need to visit a physician. However, we believe that patients can often tell that something is wrong, even if they cannot identify exactly what it is. Anyone that feels they have nerve damage after being in an accident, suffering from an infection or living with a disease like diabetes, it is important to visit our office for an examination.
Treatment options
In many cases, neuropathy is not reversible but it is treatable. We can treat the condition with things like oral medications, topical creams, and alternative therapies. What we recommend will be based on where the nerve damage has occurred and what has caused it. It will be important to address any underlying health concern that has led to the condition as well. For example, diabetics will need to do what is necessary to get their blood sugar levels under control so that the problem does not become worse while it is being treated.
Schedule an appointment
To learn more about this condition or to find out if you are suffering from neuropathy, call our office and schedule an appointment.
