All You Need To Know About Neuropathy
Neuropathy is a nerve disorder that causes numbness, tingling, pain and muscle weakness in the hands, feet, legs and arms. It is estimated that 10% of the UK population is affected by Peripheral Neuropathy. With age being one of the biggest factors of central nervous system degeneration and failure, it's estimated that the number of people affected will only increase.
Several diseases commonly cause peripheral Neuropathy, such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, drug side effects, or vitamin B12 deficiencies. However, if your doctor has ruled those out and is unable to pinpoint the source of your Neuropathy, it is diagnosed as idiopathic Neuropathy.
How is Neuropathy diagnosed?
A doctor will use tests such as monofilament, vibratip, and neurotip to help detect any problems. Blood tests, nerve conduction studies, and visits to neurologists are often needed to diagnose Neuropathy. Neuropathy is not reversible, however, it has been known to cease when some of the common causes have been addressed, such as vitamin b12 deficiency.
The cause of peripheral Neuropathy can be from a number of factors, such as vitamin B12 deficiency, diabetes, cancer, chemotherapy medications, medications for high blood pressure, or liver or kidney disease. No matter what is causing your Neuropathy, the condition is almost always chronic, so it is important to seek professional advice for treatment.
What are the treatment options for Neuropathy?
There are many treatment options for each symptom of Neuropathy. Read on to learn more about them.
Hypersensitivity and abnormal sensations: First, your GP will prescribe various creams and tapes that might provide relief. If not, pills are the next course of action.
Loss of feeling or numbness: Loss of feeling or numbness is a potentially dangerous symptom. You cannot rely on pain to tell you if something is wrong. Don't worry; just work these safety checks into your daily routine, and you'll be good to go!
You wouldn't wear a new shirt without checking it for stains or holes. Similarly, you shouldn't wear your shoes without first checking them for foreign bodies.
When running a bath, don't risk scalding your skin with water that feels too hot — use your elbows!
Check the bottom of your feet at the end of the day for any bleeding, discolouration, cuts/wounds, and anything stuck in your feet or out of the ordinary. If you have any problems (cuts, blisters, etc.), speak to your doctor/foot specialist and get it checked out.
Dry skin: Check your shower gel. It might be time to swap your traditional soap for something healthier, like aqueous cream or Aveeno shower gel. These substances will moisturise your skin and need to be applied daily.
Did you know that your foot doctor can help treat your peripheral Neuropathy? A podiatrist can reduce pain and other debilitating symptoms by treating underlying infection, removing pressure on nerves, or providing medication. They can also make sure your footwear fits properly and helps you avoid future issues. Whether you're experiencing numbness in your feet or hands, tingling, or experience muscle weakness, contact your podiatrist today!
*This blog contains general information about medical conditions and is not advice. You must not rely upon the information in this blog as medical advice. Medical advice should always be sought from an appropriately qualified podiatrist such as ourselves.