Peripheral Neuropathy is weakness, numbness and pain from nerve damage. This is most often experienced in the hands and feet. Peripheral Neuropathy can lead to Charcot Foot. Here are 10 things you should know about Peripheral Neuropathy.
- The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke estimates more than 20 million people in the United States have some form of Peripheral Neuropathy. The number may be even higher since not all people with symptoms of Neuropathy seek treatment or testing.
- Symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy include numbness, prickling or tingling in your hands or feet, extreme sensitivity to touch, sharp, jabbing or burning pain in the hands and feet.
- Peripheral Neuropathy can be caused by a number of factors including, diabetes, chemo-induced neuropathy, auto-immune disease, alcoholism, hereditary conditions and inflammatory infections.
- Symptoms of neuropathy can lessen over time but in most cases they do not. If you are diabetic control your blood sugar. High blood sugar can cause nerve damage.
- Medications can at times be used to help control the symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy. Those include the use of pain relievers, some anti-seizure medications, topical treatments and antidepressants.
- Good nutrition can help combat the symptoms and progression of Peripheral Neuropathy. Talk with you doctor and nutritionist about developing a healthy eating plan.
- Peripheral Neuropathy can cause balance issues as the nerves in your legs are not working properly. Exercise extreme caution when walking to avoid falls or injury.
- Between 60 to 70 percent of diabetics have Peripheral Neuropathy. It is incredibly important to keep blood sugar levels in control.
- Research has shown exercise can help control symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy. Consult with your doctor on developing an exercise plan to meet your needs.
- Diabetic neuropathy cannot be reversed. However, you can manage symptoms and prevent additional damage by keeping blood sugar levels under control.
If you have signs or symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy contact your physician.