Neuropathy, which means nerve loss, affects millions of people around the world. Some of the things that can happen when nerves in the peripheral nervous system get hurt are tingle, pain, stiffness, and weakness. Neuropathy comes in a lot of different forms, and each has its own reasons and signs. To get an early diagnosis and start treatment, it’s important to know about these different types of neuropathy and the pain symptoms that go along with them.
What is Neuropathy?
Nerves in the body’s edges can’t send and receive messages from and to the brain and spinal cord when they are hurt. This is called neuropathy. If these nerves get hurt, they can’t work right, which can cause a lot of different symptoms, such as tingling, pain, numbness, muscle weakness, and loss of balance. The symptoms of neuropathy vary on the nerves that are affected and the type of neuropathy.
Neuropathy comes in different forms that impact various parts of the nerve system. To deal with the signs and get the right numbness treatment, you need to know about these types.
Types of Neuropathy
Peripheral Neuropathy
Some people with neuropathy have problems with the nerves in their limbs. This is called peripheral neuropathy. In many cases, it makes the hands and feet feel numb and tingly. This kind of neuropathy can show up slowly at first and get worse over time. Loss of feeling, burning or sharp pain, and weakness in the affected areas are all common signs. Diabetes, heavy drinking, infections, and not getting enough vitamins are just a few of the things that can lead to peripheral neuropathy.
Numbness Symptoms: People with peripheral neuropathy often experience a “pins and needles” feeling, loss of touch sensitivity, and difficulty feeling temperature changes.
Autonomic Neuropathy
The nerves that control automatic processes like heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and temperature control are affected by autonomic neuropathy. This kind of neuropathy doesn’t usually make the limbs numb, but it can cause other symptoms that are very painful. Some of these are feeling dizzy, having trouble eating, having digestive issues, and having trouble keeping your body temperature stable.
Numbness Symptoms: In cases of autonomic neuropathy, numbness symptoms are less common, but individuals may experience sensations like lightheadedness or dizziness when standing up quickly due to blood pressure irregularities.
Diabetic Neuropathy
A lot of people with diabetes end up with diabetic neuropathy. This happens when their blood sugar stays too high for too long, hurting their nerves. This type of neuropathy typically affects the legs, feet, and hands, and is often associated with peripheral neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy is a leading cause of numbness symptoms in people with long-standing diabetes.
Numbness Symptoms: In the feet, legs, hands, and arms, diabetic neuropathy can make you feel cold, tingly, or lose your sense of touch. It can also hurt, make muscles weak, and make it hard to walk.
Numbness Treatment
Numbness treatment largely depends on the underlying cause of the neuropathy. Neuropathy usually can’t be cured, but if it’s found and treated early on, it can help people deal with their symptoms and stop more nerve damage. Common approaches to numbness treatment include:
- Medications: Pain killers, seizure medicines, and antidepressants may be given to people with nerve pain and soreness. Controlling blood sugar is very important for people with diabetic neuropathy who want to slow the development of the condition.
- Physical therapy: Engaging in physical therapy can help improve strength, coordination, and balance, especially for those with weakness or loss of sensation in the limbs.
- Nutritional supplementation: For those with neuropathy caused by vitamin deficiencies, supplementing with vitamins such as B12, B1, and vitamin E can help promote nerve health.
- Lifestyle changes: Managing underlying health conditions like diabetes, improving diet, and avoiding alcohol can significantly improve symptoms and prevent further nerve damage.
Seeking Professional Help
Talk to a doctor if you or someone you care about is feeling numb or thinks they might have neuropathy. South Valley Neurology offers expert diagnosis and treatment for neuropathy, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care for their symptoms. Their team can help identify the underlying cause of numbness and recommend an appropriate treatment plan tailored to each individual’s needs.
Conclusion
By understanding the different types of neuropathy and recognizing the symptoms early, individuals can seek the proper treatment and reduce the risk of further nerve damage. If you are experiencing symptoms of neuropathy, reaching out to South Valley Neurology can help you receive the care you need to manage your condition and improve your quality of life.