What Is Peripheral Neuropathy?
The human nervous system is made up of two parts, the central nervous system and peripheral nervous system. The central nervous system includes the spinal cord and brain. The peripheral nervous system connects the nerves from the spinal cord and brain to other parts of the body.
Peripheral neuropathy occurs when the nerves are destroyed or damaged. The nerves cannot properly send messages from the spinal cord and brain to the other parts of the body.
Causes of Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy can be caused by a number of conditions.
- Autoimmune diseases-An autoimmune disease occurs when the body attacks its own tissues and organs.
- Diabetes-It is estimated that half of diabetics have peripheral neuropathy
- Certain infections-This includes HIV, Lyme disease and hepatitis B and C.
- Tumors
- Bone marrow disease
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Medications
- Exposure to poisons
- Alcoholism
How Can Peripheral Neuropathy Be Treated?
There are a variety of ways that peripheral neuropathy in Sun City, AZ, can be treated. The type of treatment that is recommended will depend on the underlying cause. There are also medications that can be used to alleviate the symptoms.
Standard treatment uses over-the-counter pain relievers that may alleviate symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. Standard treatments also use anti-seizure medications which may also alleviate symptoms. Lyrica, Neurontin and Gralise are some of the anti-seizure medications that may be recommended. Dizziness and drowsiness are some of the possible side effects. There are new treatments that are effective in reducing pain and increasing blood flow that do not involve medications.
Additionally, you can use topical treatments to alleviate symptoms. Capsaicin cream, which has a substance that is found in hot peppers, can reduce your symptoms.
Can Peripheral Neuropathy Be Prevented?
There are several things that you can do in order to reduce your risk of getting peripheral neuropathy. You will need to follow a healthy diet in order to ensure that you get the nutrients that you need. You should also get 30 minutes of exercise per day. Additionally, you should avoid alcohol and cigarettes.
If you suffer from peripheral neuropathy in Sun City, AZ, then you will need to contact Cactus Medical Center.
