PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY
IN MARINE CITY

• Diabetes: The most common cause.
• Traumatic Injury: Accidents or other physical trauma.
• Infection: Viral or bacterial infections can damage nerves.
• Metabolic Disorders: Conditions like hypothyroidism or vitamin deficiencies.
• Toxins: Exposure to certain chemicals or heavy metals.

Causes of Peripheral Neuropathy

Common Causes of Neuropathy

• Diabetes: Affects approximately 70% of Americans with diabetes.
• Acquired Neuropathies: Alcoholism, poor nutrition, trauma, nerve pressure, repetitive movements, autoimmune diseases (like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus), toxins, heavy metal poisoning, certain medications, cancer treatments, hereditary disorders, tumors, and other diseases (e.g., HIV/AIDS, Lyme disease, liver disease, kidney disease, hypothyroidism).

Peripheral neuropathy can be categorized based on the affected nerves:

• Sensorimotor polyneuropathy: Affects both sensory and motor nerves.
• Autonomic neuropathy: Affects nerves controlling processes like breathing, heartbeat, and perspiration.

Classification of Peripheral Neuropathy

• Mononeuropathy: Affects a single nerve (e.g., carpal tunnel syndrome, Bell's palsy).
• Multiple Mononeuropathy: Affects two or more individual nerves.
• Polyneuropathy: Affects a broad range of peripheral nerves (e.g., associated with diabetes).

Additional Classifications

• Functional classification: Motor, sensory, autonomic, or a combination.
• Type of onset: Hours, days, weeks, months, or years.  

Neuropathy can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or ethnicity. However, certain factors may increase your risk:

• Lifestyle: Poor nutrition, excessive alcohol consumption, and repetitive movements can contribute to neuropathy.
• Medical Conditions: Diabetes, autoimmune diseases, compromised immune systems, kidney disease, liver disease, and thyroid disorders can increase your risk.

There are various approaches to treating neuropathy, including:

• Medications: Antidepressants and anticonvulsants are commonly used to manage pain. Opioids may be considered in severe cases but carry a risk of addiction.
• Topical Creams: Lidocaine and capsaicin can provide localized pain relief.
• Alternative Therapies: Cannabinoids, Botox, ketamine, dietary supplements, chiropractic adjustments, therapeutic massage, yoga, and acupuncture may offer benefits.
• Neuromodulation: Surgical implantation of devices like spinal cord stimulators, spinal pumps, or electrodes may be considered in severe cases.

Lifestyle Modifications

• • Proper Nutrition: A healthy diet is crucial, especially for diabetics.
  • Exercise: Regular physical activity can help manage symptoms.
  • Quit Smoking: Smoking can exacerbate neuropathy.
  • Self-Care: Massaging hands and feet can provide temporary relief and avoid further nerve damage.