Peripheral neuropathy affects millions globally, causing pain, numbness, and weakness. As a leading interventional neurologist, Dr. Rohit BG here to guide you through this condition, exploring its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Understanding Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral nerves connect your brain and spinal cord to the rest of your body. When these nerves are damaged, it\\\’s called peripheral neuropathy. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, depending on which nerves are affected.
What Causes Peripheral Neuropathy?
- Diabetes: High blood sugar over time can damage nerves, causing diabetic neuropathy, a common form.
- Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can attack nerves.
- Vitamin Deficiencies: Lack of B vitamins can contribute to neuropathy.
- Toxins & Medications: Exposure to toxins or certain medications can damage nerves.
- Infections: Shingles, Lyme disease, and other infections can affect nerves.
- Trauma & Injuries: Accidents, falls, or repetitive stress can damage nerves.
- Other Causes: Alcohol abuse, kidney disease, cancer, and genetics can also play a role.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Pain: Burning, stabbing, or electric-like pain, especially in hands and feet.
- Numbness & Tingling: Loss of feeling or tingling sensations.
- Muscle Weakness: Difficulty walking, gripping objects, or maintaining balance.
- Sensitivity to Touch: Increased sensitivity to light touch or temperature changes.
- Foot Problems: Foot ulcers or infections can occur in diabetic neuropathy.
Diagnosis by Interventional Neurologists
We use a comprehensive approach to diagnose peripheral neuropathy, including:
- Medical History Review: Discussing your symptoms, medical conditions, and lifestyle.
- Physical Examination: Checking reflexes, sensation, and muscle strength.
- Diagnostic Tests: Nerve conduction studies, electromyography, blood tests, or imaging studies may be needed.
Treatment Options We Offer
While there\\\’s no cure for all types of neuropathy, we offer various treatment options to manage symptoms and improve quality of life:
- Medications: Pain relievers, anti-seizure drugs, or topical creams can help manage pain.
- Physical Therapy: Exercises and stretches can improve strength, coordination, and balance.
- Lifestyle Changes: Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and managing stress can benefit nerve health.
- Nutritional Support: B vitamins, alpha-lipoic acid, or omega-3s may be recommended.
- Pain Management Techniques: Techniques like acupuncture or TENS can offer pain relief.
- Interventional Procedures: In some cases, nerve blocks or spinal cord stimulation may be considered.
Living Well with Peripheral Neuropathy
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing neuropathy. With proper management, many people with peripheral neuropathy can live active and fulfilling lives.