Peripheral neuropathy is a condition where the outside nerves, known as peripheral nerves of the brain and spinal cord, get damaged due to injuries or some illnesses. It can also affect different parts of the body. The common causes of this condition are smoking and diabetes. The symptoms usually seen in this condition are extreme pain in the affected body part while doing normal activity, weakness, and numbness in the hands and feet.
However, peripheral neuropathy is not severe as it affects only one nerve or a group of connected nerves. If you want to learn more about this condition, then visit board certified family nurse practitioner Falls Church, VA, for a consultation.
Causes of peripheral neuropathy
- Physical injury
When you fall or get into an accident, the injuries may affect the nerves, causing peripheral neuropathy.
- Genetics
In some cases, an individual may inherit the condition from family members.
- Vitamin Deficiency
Lack of vitamin B12 in your body also causes peripheral neuropathy.
- Diabetes
This is the most common cause of peripheral neuropathy, as it damages the nervous system due to high sugar levels in the blood.
Other causes, such as smoking, consuming heavy levels of alcohol, taking toxins like drugs, etc., lead to neuropathy. Individuals suffering from kidney and liver disorders also have the risk of damaging their nerves.
Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy
- Pain in the affected body part.
- Numbness and weakness, especially in the hands and feet.
- Trouble while balancing, coordinating, and walking.
- Sensations like poking of pins and needles on your body.
- Weakness of muscles while doing basic motor activities like wearing clothes and tying shoes.
- Irregular heart rates.
Peripheral neuropathy can be both temporary and permanent. It can be treated fully but can also be incurable, depending on the individual’s situation. Here are some different ways to treat peripheral neuropathy conditions.
Treatment of neuropathy
- Physical therapies or exercise techniques can help you improve your muscle weakness, balance, and coordination.
- Painkillers or other prescribed medicines can help you overcome painful symptoms.
- Taking your medicines as instructed by your doctor is helpful.
- Maintain a healthy diet to improve the vitamin deficiency factor.
- In severe cases, a pain relief shot might be injected to relieve the pain.
- Surgery can also be required to repair the damaged nerve.
- Look after your feet, as it might put you at risk of causing foot ulcers.
- Try to adopt a healthy daily schedule by quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol, and maintaining a healthier lifestyle.
It is important to note that this condition has no common treatment. It is always beneficial to consult with a doctor.