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What is Neuropathy? |
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Symptoms
Neuropathy is a condition which results from various conditions, but its most common symptom involves either a loss of sensation or a pain in the extremities, particularly the hands and feet. The latter is usually described as a prickling or searing sensation, while the numbness is very similar to the sensation that is felt when wearing hand gloves. The condition usually starts at the areas with the longest nerve fibers (those which extend to the toes), and apart from the symptoms previously mentioned, a person may also feel the prickling or lack of sensation spreading inwards, to the legs and the arms; sometimes the sensation may seem like a jabbing pain similar to an electric shock. Tactile abilities may be heightened, and may be accompanied by coordination problems. If the motor nerves have been affected, muscle debilitation or paralysis may occur.
Causes
Numerous causes lead to neuropathy. Prolonged pressure or trauma on the nerve can result in the condition, such as in areas which are constantly pressured with crutches or braces, instances of repetitive motion, or the placing a body part in an unnatural position for prolonged periods. Tumors and bone abnormalities may also contribute. If the injury occurs on a few nerves, diabetes is commonly the reason for it (fifty percent of diabetics develop some form of neuropathy). The patient may also bear a vitamin deficiency, particularly if the person is an alcoholic who observes a poor dietary regimen. Autoimmune conditions like lupus, arthritis, and diseases like hyperthyroidism, HIV, or renal and liver dysfunctions may also lead to neuropathy. If the patient has been exposed to toxic agents (including chemotherapy drugs), he will also bear an increased risk for developing the condition.
Diagnosis
Neuropathy is very difficult to diagnose, since it is not a condition with a single identifiable cause; the doctor has to rule it out from numerous possible causes. To make a definitive diagnosis, the doctor will take account the patient’s entire medical history, and follow it through with physical and neurological test which includes evaluating the tendon reflex, as well as muscle contour and strength; the patient’s tactile capabilities and body coordination may also be assessed. The vitamin B-12 level may be checked through blood testing, followed by urine sample analysis, thyroid functioning tests, and electromyography. A nerve biopsy may be conducted to physically examine a sample of the afflicted nerve, in an effort to detect potential abnormalities.
Treatment Info
The main purpose of treatment is to control the cause of neuropathy; if this is corrected, the disease usually improves without further treatments. Pain management is a secondary end of treatment, and there are various medications which can provide relief for the patient. Milder symptoms may dissipate with OTC pain medicines, and the doctor may produce a prescription for severe pain. Opiate medications like codeine may lead to dependence and lethargy, so it is usually recommended when other alternatives fail. Anti-seizure medications like gabapentin, carbamazepine topiramate and may also be prescribed for nerve pain, as well as tricyclic antidepressants like amitriptyline or nortriptyline, and anesthetics like lidocaine patches (for localized areas of severe pain).
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