Neuropathy describes damaged nerves, most commonly in the peripheral nervous system (also known as peripheral neuropathy). Peripheral neuropathy can lead to a number of symptoms, including sharp and severe pain, poor muscle control, and numbness or tingling of the affected areas. Neuropathy can be caused by a vast array of problems that cause nerve damage.
Diagnosis
Proper diagnosis of neuropathy and its origin is essential for successful treatment and healing of the nerves. Neuropathy is typically diagnosed by measuring nerve conduction, by getting a biopsy of the affected nerve, and a procedure called an electromyography, which uses electrodes to measure the health of the nerves. Physicians will also screen for some underlying disorders, such as diabetes or vitamin deficiencies, that may be causing the neuropathy.
Causes
Identifying the underlying cause of the neuropathy is a key component of healing or preventing further damage. Neuropathy can be caused by traumatic injury, diabetes, vitamin deficiency (especially in alcoholics) and genetic disorders. Neuropathy can also be a side effect of some medications, infectious diseases (including AIDS), and problems with the immune system.
Treatment
The best chance for curing neuropathy, or at the very least slowing its progression is to identify and treat the underlying disorder. For diabetic neuropathy, this involves tight control of blood glucose levels through medication and lifestyle changes. In the case of neuropathy caused by vitamin deficiencies, vitamin supplementation (and, in the case of alcoholics, abstaining from alcohol consumption) can cure the nerve problems. Neuropathy caused by infections may be relieved by eliminating the infection. If the underlying cause is a problem with the immune system, taking immunosuppressants may eliminate the nerve symptoms.
Pain Management
In many cases, neuropathy can cause severe "stabbing" pains. This is especially true for patients in whom the underlying cause of the neuropathy cannot be completely cured. In these cases, presciption pain medications (including narcotic pain medications) may be needed to relieve the pain. Some anticonvulsants (such as carbamazepine, phenytoin and gabapentin) can also reduce the pain.
Neuropathic Lesions
One danger of neuropathy is the loss of sensation in parts of the body. Diabetic neuropathy, for example, typically leads to decreased sensation in the foot. This can cause patients to develop a cut or injury to this location and not be aware of it. Patients with neuropathy must be vigilant and check the health of afflicted areas daily and to care for any wounds to prevent infection. A study done by Dr. Richard Dillon at Thomas Jefferson University revealed that neuropathic injuries may heal more slowly as a result of decreased nerve function in these areas.
