Some things are simply irreversible. You can never uncook a scrambled egg or bring a tree cut down into lumber back into life. For ages, healthcare providers thought that nerve damage resulting from peripheral neuropathy was irreversible. It may be time to review this view.
Thanks to pioneering research and advanced treatment options, many people with this disorder are reducing their dependence on painkillers. Some are regaining the nerve function they thought they lost forever.
This umbrella term describes nerve damage. The nervous system sends all kinds of information from the central nervous system to the rest of the body. Damage to your nerves can lead to weakness, numbness, pain, and problems with some bodily functions. Peripheral neuropathy affects the nerves outside the spinal cord and brain.
Some of the reasons this can happen include infections, trauma, and inherited conditions. Since many conditions can cause this disease, many symptoms are possible. Furthermore, this condition can affect different body parts, depending on why and how it happens.
Tingling or numbness, especially in the feet and hands
Loss of reflexes
Cramping or pain, especially in the feet, hands, or calf muscles
Weakness, especially in the hands or feet
Sensitivity to temperature or touch
Muscle wasting in the feet and hands
Dizziness when getting up from a chair or bed
Clumsiness
Sexual dysfunction
Loss of balance
It is not easy to live with this disorder. Schedule an appointment with your doctor immediately if you notice any of the symptoms.
Whether your condition is reversible depends on the underlying cause of your nerve damage. Nerve damage may be permanent in some cases. In others, the pain may disappear entirely.
For example, if the cause of your condition is an infection, treating the infection might get rid of the symptoms. Similarly, if symptoms stem from a tumor pressing on a nerve, removing it will relieve your pain.
Unfortunately, nerve damage might be permanent for those with diabetic neuropathy, especially if left untreated for extended periods. However, that does not mean there is no hope. The right combination of lifestyle changes and treatments may significantly improve the symptoms in those with diabetes.
The proper treatment for this disorder will depend on the cause of your pain and the symptoms you are experiencing. It would help to understand that it may take some time to determine the best treatment for you.
For example, combining dietary changes and medication may help those with diabetic neuropathy manage their condition and control their blood sugar. Standard treatments for peripheral neuropathy include:
Medication
Physical therapy
Dietary changes
Surgery
Even if your condition is not entirely reversible, there are ways to prevent your symptoms from spreading or worsening. Some of these include taking medication as prescribed, eating a balanced diet, quitting smoking, and taking care of your feet. Whether you are just starting to notice symptoms or have been living with this disorder for a long time, a neurologist can help.
For more about peripheral neuropathy, call Beyer Functional Wellness at (708) 719-9100 to reach our office in Mokena, Illinois.