Nerve pain is referred to as neuropathy. MayoClinic.com says neuropathy is typically caused by nerve damage due to infections, traumatic injuries, exposure to toxins and metabolic problems. Neuropathy may hinder your ability to control your muscles and lead to a loss of sensation. Vitamins that are essential in the formation of nerves may lessen the pain caused by nerve damage.
Importance
The nervous system consists of the spinal cord, brain, autonomic nerves and the peripheral. These components of the nervous system are responsible for all of the body's movements and sensations. Cells in the nerves are dependent on vitamins for formation, repair and regeneration.
Causes
Nerve pain may be caused by deficiencies of certain vitamins in your diet. Vitamins in the B family are essential in promoting and maintaining nerve health. Other causes of nerve pain may be due to hereditary disorders such as Friedreich's ataxia. Hepatitis, syphilis and Lyme disease are among the many types of infections leading to nerve pain. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, peripheral neuropathy is fairly common due to the numerous causes and types.
Symptoms
Symptoms of neuropathy vary depending on the nerve that's affected. The three types of nerves are sensory nerves, motor nerves and autonomic nerves. Tingling, numbness and a burning sensation indicate damage to a sensory nerve. Weakness, loss of muscle control and cramps are caused by damage to the motor nerves. Autonomic nerve damage may cause blurred vision, nausea, vomiting, dizziness and diarrhea.
Diagnosis
If you experience symptoms of numbness and tingling, consult your doctor. She'll likely perform a complete physical, take your extensive medical history and conduct sensory tests. Blood tests may also be administered to check liver function, kidney function and vitamin levels. In more severe cases, a biopsy of the nerve may be conducted to check for nerve abnormalities.
Treatment
Nerve pain caused by a deficiency may be treated with vitamin supplements. Vitamins in the B family are necessary for maintaining healthy nerves and reducing the risk of nerve damage. Enhancing your diet with foods rich in B vitamins can ease nerve pain. In addition, over-the-counter pain medication may be used to treat mild symptoms of neuropathy. For the more severe cases, your doctor may prescribe painkillers containing codeine.
Complications
If you experience nerve pain, MayoClinic.com suggests checking your feet frequently as they lack sensation. This lack of sensation may lead to infections caused by injuries gone unnoticed.
