Neuropathy, or peripheral neuropathy, is a group of disorders that result from damage to your body's peripheral nervous system, and they often cause numbness, pain or weakness in certain parts of your body. According to the University of Chicago, there are numerous types of peripheral neuropathy, with an assortment of causes. Supplements have long been used in treating peripheral neuropathy. Before using dietary supplements for this health purpose, review procedures and precautions with your doctor.
Neuropathy Background Information
Peripheral neuropathy, states the University of Maryland Medical Center, may be caused by hereditary disorders, metabolic disorders, infections, drugs, poisonous substances and prolonged nerve compression. Some of the most common signs and symptoms associated with peripheral neuropathy include shock-like pain, burning pain, heightened sensitivity to touch, the sensation that you are wearing a glove or sock, decreased muscle strength, excessive sweating, reduced coordination, balance problems, and blood pressure abnormalities.
Neuropathy Supplements
Although dietary supplements are a time-honored approach to treating peripheral neuropathy, further testing using contemporary scientific research methods may be necessary to validate the use of these natural substances for this condition. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, several herbal and non-herbal dietary supplements may possess some degree of efficacy in treating your peripheral neuropathy, including vitamin E, biotin, cayenne, omega-6 fatty acids, gamma-linolenic acid and evening primrose.
Highlighted Supplement
Evening primrose is a dietary supplement that has historically been used in treating neuropathy, especially diabetic neuropathy -- a nerve condition associated with diabetes. Evening primrose may be helpful in reducing the symptoms associated with diabetic neuropathy, such as decreased sensation in your lower extremities as well as burning, tingling or pain in your affected area. Primrose seed oil contains numerous phytochemicals and nutrients that are used in treating a wide range of ailments.
Additional Information
Neuropathy may be an indication of a serious disease. If you develop the characteristic symptoms of neuropathy, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider to be properly evaluated and diagnosed. A skilled health care practitioner can tell you about your treatment options and detail the risks and benefits associated with each of these options. Dietary supplements, while largely safe and effective in treating your neuropathy, should only be used under the supervision of your doctor.
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