Peripheral Neuropathy is a condition that affects those peripheral nerves. The peripheral nerves are nerves that connect your legs and arms. If nerves have been damaged they can’t perform as they should. Patients suffering from peripheral neuropathy experience reduced or abnormal sensations in their fingers and toes. In some cases, they have difficulties moving these parts of the body too.
Causes of Peripheral Neuropathy
Within the United States, the most commonly cited reason for the condition is diabetic neuropathy. Based on the American Diabetes Association, 60 to 70 per cent of those who suffer from diabetes develop neuropathy in their lifetime.
Another cause of peripheral neuropathy comprises:
Certain medications, like certain chemotherapy drugs.
Heredity. Certain people have a family background that has peripheral neuropathy.
The advanced age. Neuropathy that affects the peripheral nerves is more common as people get older.
Arthritis. Certain kinds of arthritis, specifically involving the back, may cause peripheral neuropathy.
Alcoholism. As per the US National Library of Medicine, about 50% of long-term users of alcohol have peripheral neuropathy.
Neurological conditions. Certain neurological conditions, like spina bifida as well as fibromyalgia, are related to peripheral neuropathy.
Injury. An injury to the peripheral nerves could also lead to peripheral neuropathy.
Symptoms
The most frequently reported manifestations of peripheral nerve disease are burning sensation, numbness or tingling or stabbing pain in the feet and/or fingers. Any changes in sensations in the toes or fingers could be a sign or a sign of nerve pain. Make sure you notice any unusual sensations to your physician. These sensations could be the first indication of another issue like diabetes.
Home Care for Peripheral Neuropathy
If you suffer from peripheral neuropathy, it’s vital to examine your feet on a regular basis. Since decreased sensation can develop in time, you may not even notice an infection or injury. Anyone with nerve pain and diabetes with diminished protective sensation, for instance, may take a step onto a tack, but not even notice. Check your feet regularly so that you are aware of any infections or injuries and seek medical attention when required.
If you’re not able to examine your feet, ask an adult or someone else to assist you or make use of the mirror. It’s important that any injuries are identified and treated quickly. If not, an infection may be able to develop and grow.
Patients with nerve pain must wear shoes that are properly fitting and stay away from walking on bare feet to avoid injuries. If you suffer from diabetes you must control your blood sugar level as well, since uncontrolled blood sugar causes damage to nerves. Use your insulin or other medication according to the instructions and adhere to the diet plan recommended by your doctor.
When to Visit a Podiatrist?
Any person who is suffering from nerve pain in the feet ought to visit an orthopaedic surgeon. Podiatrists are doctors specially trained to protect the health of the feet.
Diagnosis and Treatment
A podiatrist or family physician or internist who is trained in diabetes may identify peripheral neuropathy. This diagnosis can be made on basis of an examination along with a medical history, as well as your report of symptoms. Your doctor may recommend an examination of your blood to determine your blood sugar levels because elevated blood sugar and diabetes are major reason for nerve pain.
There is no cure for peripheral neuropathy. The aim of treatment is to slow the progress of the disease, keep the foot healthy, reduce discomfort (if there is any) and enhance the quality of living.
The podiatrist might prescribe medication or oral pill Nervigesic 300 to help in the treatment of symptoms. The doctor will perform a thorough examination of your feet to check for injuries or infections and instruct you on how to perform the same. The podiatrist will also teach you how to care for your foot at home. Patients with nerve pain must have their feet checked by a podiatrist at a minimum once a year.
Prevention
A balanced diet, more physical activity and well-controlled blood sugars, as well as regular visits to your podiatrist, could help you avoid the complications from diabetes like peripheral neuropathy. Also, visit Allgenericpills.com to know more.
