Peripheral Neuropathy: What You Need To Know

The experience of living with peripheral neuropathy can be compared to riding a roller coaster, particularly for those that were recently diagnosed. At best, it can be frustrating and overwhelming to manage this painful condition. Symptoms often change and patients complain of debilitating pain. The first step for those who suffer from this condition should be to educate themselves about the available treatment options since they can go a long way toward improving their quality of life.

There are approximately 120 peripheral nerves in the body, with the longest ones located in the hands and feet. The hands and feet may feel numb or tingly if damaged. It's not just these symptoms that occur. Debilitating weakness can also occur.

It is estimated that 20 million Americans are affected by this disorder, but many are unaware of how it affects their family members. How can you prevent it from affecting your family members?

Neuropathy is caused most often by diabetic complications

Neuropathy today is primarily caused by diabetes. Diabetes patients are affected by neuropathy in more than 70% of cases. Keep your glucose level low to avoid diabetes. The effect of diabetic neuropathy can even be reversed with this method.
Causes of Neuropathy Other Than Diabetes

Peripheral neuropathy is most often caused by diabetes as well as mineral deficiency, alcoholism, chemotherapy, traumatic injury, and environmental toxins. Sometimes it can be difficult for doctors to diagnose the cause, and when no cause is known with any precision, the condition is called 'idiopathic neuropathy'.
Nerve damage can occur from certain medications

Diabetics who take metformin may experience nerve damage. Several studies have linked it with vitamin B12 deficiency, which can cause neuropathy.
Preventing problems is essential

Neuropathy can sometimes be prevented - or at times slowed from spreading - even if some nerve damage is the result of injury or surgery. It is one of the most preventable diseases that follow diabetes since it is a major cause of peripheral neuropathy. You can prevent diabetes by eating well and exercising consistently.
Tingling and pain are not the only symptoms of pain

There are other symptoms as well, such as pain and tingling. The peripheral nervous system contains three types of nerves: sensory, autonomic, and motor. Their symptoms differ.

Pain, tingling, and numbness are common symptoms of sensory nerve damage. It may be difficult to walk or pick up items if you suffer from motor nerve damage.
Eating the wrong foods can worsen your symptoms

Nerves can be benefited or harmed by your diet. You should avoid foods that are high in sugar, artificial sweeteners, and refined grains to improve symptoms. Nerve pain can be aggravated by these foods. Exercise combined with a low-fat diet full of whole foods improves symptoms of neuropathy according to studies.

Understanding peripheral neuropathy, regardless of how long you've been dealing with it, can help you make better decisions about your health and well-being.

Ready to schedule an appointment? All-in-One Foot Care Center is here to help! You can contact our office at 949-588-8833, or visit our website at https://www.ocfootdoctor.com. Our offices are located in Laguna Hills, Irvine, Mission Viejo, Aliso Viejo, Lake Forest, Foothill Ranch, and Costa Mesa.

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