Managing the symptoms of neuropathy involves addressing persistent sensations like tingling, numbness, or burning in the extremities. The condition stems from factors that affect the peripheral nervous system, and it is a common condition. Because they treat different types of pain symptoms, a pain specialist may be able to help create a pain management and treatment plan for neuropathy symptoms. Here is more information about the symptoms and treatment options for neuropathy:
Understanding Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is a term for conditions that cause nerve pain, and it affects 2.4% of people in the world. This condition involves the peripheral nervous system, and this system includes nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. Because the nerves transmit signals from the brain to the body, any damage to the system disrupts normal functioning. Although some cases are severe, many forms are treatable.
Exploring Symptoms
If you experience chronic pain or weakness, you may be dealing with nerve damage. Diabetes is a primary cause of these symptoms because it affects blood sugar levels. High blood sugar levels damage small blood vessels, and this leads to decreased oxygen for the nerves. Some patients notice tingling in their feet, and others might experience muscle weakness because the nerves can no longer carry clear signals.
Symptoms vary based on which nerves are damaged. Patients might experience a variety of signs:
- Pain, burning, or tingling
- Numbness in the hands or feet
- Muscle weakness
- Incontinence, in severe cases
Health professionals categorize these signs into sensory, motor, and autonomic categories. These categories describe different functions of the body, and they help doctors pinpoint the source of the pain.
Treating Nerve Pain
The doctor administers diagnostic tests before creating a treatment plan. These evaluations include nerve conduction studies; they show how fast pain signals travel to the brain. The following tests may be administered to help diagnose neuropathic conditions:
- Magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI
- Genetic testing
- Electromyogram
- Blood tests
To treat or manage nerve pain, doctors may prescribe specific medications, or they may recommend lifestyle adjustments. If conservative treatments do not achieve the desired result, spinal cord stimulation may be an option. The provider places a device at the base of the spine that can interrupt pain signals that nerves send to the brain, causing the patient to feel a tingling feeling instead of pain. Physical therapy helps patients regain balance, and it strengthens the muscles, even though the recovery process takes time.
Seeing a Doctor
Although mild symptoms can be manageable, severe or worsening symptoms merit a professional opinion before the condition worsens. Chronic numbness can indicate the need for an evaluation. You may notice slow-healing wounds on your feet; these require immediate attention to prevent infections, especially if you have diabetes.
Learn More About Neuropathy
Neuropathy involves the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, and it is caused by underlying conditions like diabetes. Seeing a specialist provides access to advanced diagnostic tools, allowing you access to specialized therapies after diagnosis. To learn more about neuropathy treatments, consult a pain management specialist near you.