subject: Learningperipheral Neuropathy Can Help You Cope With This Disorder. [print this page] Peripheral neuropathy can cause pain and tingling in the hands and feet. The discomfort can range from mild to severe and in some instances can be quite debilitating with a total loss of sensation. Peripheral neuropathy is a disorder of the peripheral nerves extending from the spinal cord to the body; generally the hand and feet are affected.
Peripheral neuropathy results from damage to the nerves caused by diseases, trauma to the body, exposure to toxins or the side effect of certain medications including chemotherapy, as well as immune disorders. Often peripheral neuropathy is the result of a complication of diabetes. At this time, approximately 20 million Americans suffer from neuropathy. Experiencing the symptoms of neuropathy can be very traumatic and depressing especially if you have no idea what is wrong. Neuropathy tends to manifest itself gradually and worsens over time.
There are several categories of peripheral neuropathy depending on the type of nerve affected. Peripheral neuropathy may be classified as sensory, motor, sensorimotor, or autonomic. Depending on the number of nerves affected, it may be referred to as either a mononeuropathy or a polyneuropathy. Often people do not realize that in some instances peripheral neuropathy may be genetic in origin.
The first step in alleviating the discomfort associated with peripheral neuropathy is a complete medical examination by a physician to determine the specific cause of the peripheral neuropathy. Once the cause is determined the condition may be managed by correcting the deficiencies. If the condition is the result of a vitamin deficiency, the correct vitamins may be prescribed. If the neuropathy is the result of diabetes, blood glucose levels should be lowered. Providing the appropriate treatment for autoimmune disorders can eliminate the neuropathy. If medication is the culprit, ask your doctor for other types of prescription medication to see if improvement occurs. Your doctors can recommend corrective surgeries to eliminate the external pressure on the nerve. There are many options that your doctor can discuss with you.
After the primary cause of the neuropathy is identified, your doctor will explain ways to cure the neuropathy and deal with the debilitating symptoms. Common pain relievers from the drug store work well to alleviate in mild to moderate conditions. Stronger drugs may be prescribed by your doctor depending on the severity of the condition.
Anyone can be affected by peripheral neuropathy. It is not more prevalent in one group or another. The onset of peripheral neuropathy may be gradual increasing in intensity over time. Therefore the most critical step is for the doctor to identify the cause of the neuropathy, treat the cause to eliminate and control the symptoms and hopefully cure this condition.
