Neuropathy
Definition
Neuropathy is a collection of disorders that occurs when nerves of the peripheral nervous system (the part of the nervous syste
m outside of the brain and spinal cord) are damaged. The condition is generally referred to as peripheral neuropathy, and it is most commonly due to damage to nerve axons. Neuropathyusually causes pain and numbness in the hands and feet. It can result from traumatic injuries, infections, metabolic disorders, and exposure to toxins. One of the most common causes of neuropathy is diabetes.
Neuropathy can affect nerves that control muscle movement (motor nerves) and those that detect sensations such as coldness or pain (sensory nerves). In some cases – autonomic neuropathy – it can affect internal organs, such as the heart, blood vessels, bladder, or intestines.
Causes
It’s not always easy to pinpoint the cause of peripheral neuropathy, because a number of factors can cause neuropathies. These factors include:
- Alcoholism. Many alcoholics develop peripheral neuropathy because they make poor dietary choices, leading to vitamin deficiencies.
- Autoimmune diseases. These include lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and Guillain-Barre syndrome.
- Diabetes. When damage occurs to several nerves, the cause frequently is diabetes. At least half of all people with diabetes develop some type of neuropathy.
- Exposure to poisons. These may include some toxic substances, such as heavy metals, and certain medications — especially those used to treat cancer (chemotherapy).
- Infections. Certain viral or bacterial infections can cause peripheral neuropathy, including Lyme disease, shingles (varicella-zoster), Epstein-Barr, hepatitis C and HIV/AIDS.
- Inherited disorders. Examples include Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and amyloid polyneuropathy.
- Trauma or pressure on the nerve. Traumas, such as motor vehicle accidents, falls or sports injuries, can sever or damage peripheral nerves. Nerve pressure can result from using a cast or crutches, spending a long time in an unnatural position or repeating a motion many times — such as typing.
- Tumors. Growths can form directly on the nerves themselves, or tumors can exert pressure on surrounding nerves. Both cancerous (malignant) and noncancerous (benign) tumors can contribute to peripheral neuropathy.
- Vitamin deficiencies. B vitamins — B-1, B-6 and B-12 — are particularly important to nerve health. Vitamin E and niacin also are crucial to nerve health.
- Other diseases. Kidney disease, liver disease and an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) also can cause peripheral neuropathy.
Treatment and Prevention
Effective prognosis and treatment of peripheral neuropathies relies heavily on the origin of the nerve damage. For example, peripheral neuropathies caused by vitamin deficiencies can often be halted — even reversed — with vitamin therapy and an improved diet. Likewise, nerve damage brought on by alcohol abuse can often be improved by avoiding alcohol. Peripheral neuropathies caused by toxic substances or medications can often be corrected in much the same way. When neuropathy is related to diabetes, careful monitoring of blood sugar levels may slow its progression and curb symptoms.
The most successful way to prevent diabetic neuropathy from occurring is to control the disease. It is important to maintain blood sugars at normal levels and maintain normal blood pressure. In addition to this it is important to
1. Exercise regularly, according to your doctors advise
2.have regular urine and blood tests
3. Limit your alcohol
4. Stop smoking
5. Have regular exams
It is important for diabetics to treat their feet properly to avoid problems. Footwear and orthotics play an important role in diabetic footcare. Footwear that fits poorly can cause irritation and injury. Orthotics designed with Plastazote, the #1 material designed to accommodate pressure, “hot spots”, by conforming to heat and pressure. Customizing Plastazote to the foot provides comfort and protection needed in diabetic footcare. Footwear constructed with Plastazote is often recommended for the diabetic patient. Diabetic footwear should also accommodate any foot irregularities such as bunions, hammertoes, callouses etc. Prescription medication is available to address neuropathy pain. All persons with diabetes should consult with their doctor regarding proper foot care.
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