Peripheral Neuropathy Therapy Specialist in Lyndhurst, OH

One of the primary causes of neuropathy is damage to the nerves, which can occur due to various factors such as injuries, infections, and chronic illnesses. Injuries such as fractures or dislocations can damage the nerves, leading to numbness or tingling sensations. Infections such as HIV, Lyme disease, and shingles can also cause neuropathy by damaging the nerves or triggering an autoimmune response. Additionally, chronic illnesses such as diabetes can cause neuropathy by damaging the nerves over time due to high blood sugar levels.

Diabetes is a common cause of neuropathy, affecting millions of people worldwide. High blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can damage the nerves, leading to various symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and pain. This type of neuropathy typically affects the feet and legs, but it can also affect other parts of the body such as the hands and arms. In severe cases, diabetes-related neuropathy can lead to loss of sensation and muscle weakness making it difficult to perform daily activities.

Aside from diabetes, other causes of neuropathy include certain medications, autoimmune disorders, and exposure to toxins. Medications such as chemotherapy drugs can damage the nerves, leading to symptoms such as numbness and tingling. Autoimmune disorders such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis can also cause neuropathy by triggering an immune response that damages the nerves. Exposure to toxins such as lead and mercury can also cause neuropathy, leading to symptoms such as weakness and numbness.

The early stage of neuropathy is characterized by the onset of mild symptoms, such as occasional tingling sensations, minor pain, and numbness. At this stage, the symptoms may not be severe enough to interfere with daily activities, and the individual may not be aware of the condition. However, if left untreated the symptoms can worsen over time.

The early stage of neuropathy can last several months or years, depending on the underlying cause. It is essential to seek medical attention if any symptoms of neuropathy are present to diagnose and manage the condition before it worsens. Early diagnosis and treatment can slow the progression of neuropathy and prevent further damage to the nerves.

The mid-stage of neuropathy is when the symptoms become more noticeable and severe and the condition starts to affect daily activities. The pain, numbness, and tingling sensations may become more frequent and intense, and the affected areas may become sensitive to touch.

The late stage of neuropathy is the most severe and can be debilitating. The symptoms are persistent, and the affected areas may become completely numb, making it difficult to perform daily activities such as walking or holding objects. The pain can be severe and may require strong pain medication to manage.

Symptoms range from tingling or numbness in specific parts of the body to more serious effects such as:

– muscle weakness
– cramps
– muscle twitching
– loss of muscle and bone
– changes in skin, hair, or nails
– deafness
– loss of sensation or sensation in body parts
– Loss of balance or other function as a side effect of loss of sensation in the legs, arms, or other parts of the body
– emotional disorder
– sleep disorder
– Loss of pain or sensations that could put you at risk such as not feeling an impending heart attack or body pain
– Inability to sweat properly, resulting in heat intolerance
– Loss of bladder control leading to infection or incontinence
– Dizziness, light-headed, or fainting due to uncontrolled blood pressure
– Diarrhea, constipation, or incontinence associated with intestinal or digestive nerve damage
– difficulty eating or swallowing
– Life-threatening symptoms, such as trouble breathing or irregular heartbeat

– Painkillers. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as NSAIDs, can relieve mild symptoms. For more severe symptoms, your doctor may prescribe pain medication.

– Antiepileptic drugs. Drugs developed to treat epilepsy, such as gabapentin (Gralise, Neurontin, Horizant) and pregabalin (Lyrica), can relieve nerve pain. Side effects may include drowsiness and dizziness.

– Topical treatment. Capsaicin cream, which contains a substance found in hot peppers which may slightly improve symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. You may experience burning and irritation on your skin when you apply the cream, but this usually subsides over time. However, some people can’t stand it.

– Antidepressants. Certain tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitriptyline, doxepin (Silenor, Zonalon), and nortriptyline (Pamelor), have been found to help relieve pain by interfering with chemical processes in the brain and spinal cord that cause pain.

In conclusion, neuropathy can be caused by various factors such as injuries, infections, chronic illnesses, medications, autoimmune disorders, and exposure to toxins. Understanding the underlying causes of neuropathy is essential in managing the condition and preventing further damage to the nerves. While there is no cure for neuropathy, treatments such as medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes can help alleviate the symptoms and improve the quality of life. For more information, contact us. We serve patients from Lyndhurst OH, Chagrin Falls OH, Beachwood OH, Collinwood OH, Pepper Pike OH, Woodmere OH, Hunting Valley OH, and surrounding areas.