Are you experiencing a tingling or burning sensation or sharp pain in your hands, foot, thigh, back, or face, especially at night? How about muscle weakness, cramping, muscle coordination problems, and difficulty walking? These are among the common Glen Rock neuropathy symptoms. Neuropathy, also referred to as peripheral neuropathy or polyneuropathy, results from damage affecting the peripheral nerves.
Peripheral nerves are the farthest from your nervous system. They are responsible for transmitting information to the spine and brain from other areas of your body. Peripheral nerves can be damaged by various concerns, from trauma and infections to immune concerns. Among the common neuropathy risk factors includes:
1. Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is among the most common neuropathy causes, also referred to as diabetic neuropathy. Uncontrolled blood sugar can cause nerve damage all over your body. It is among the reasons individuals with diabetes lose feeling in their lower legs and feet. Effective measures to manage blood sugar are critical to avoid complications that could even lead to amputations.
2. Deficiencies
Nutritional deficiencies make your body vulnerable since it is not well replenished to function optimally. Vitamin (B1, B6, B9, B12, and E) and copper deficiencies are associated with an increased risk of developing neuropathy. Revising your diet to avoid such deficiencies, including turning to supplements, can help.
3. Genetics
Neuropathy can be inherited, especially with the genetic conditions passed from your parent. The common genetic conditions associated with an increased neuropathy risk include:
- Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease
- Fabry
- Amyloidosis
Some of the genetic conditions are treatable. Managing the untreatable ones can also help lower the chances of developing neuropathy.
4. Immune problems
Autoimmune and inflammatory concerns increase neuropathy risk. This includes conditions like:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy
- Lupus
- Vasculitis
- Sjogren syndrome
- Guillain-Barre syndrome, to name a few
Managing or treating curable inflammatory and autoimmune conditions can help lower the risk or manage neuropathy symptoms.
5. Infections
Bacteria and viruses are known to cause nerve damage. This is why infections such as shingles, Lyme disease, and HIV are associated with an increased neuropathy risk.
6. Exposure
Exposure to toxins like industrial chemicals and metals can lead to neuropathy. Certain medications can also increase neuropathy risk. This includes antibiotics and treatments like chemotherapy.
7. Trauma
Trauma, such as from surgery, tumors, or injuries, can cause nerve damage and lead to neuropathy. Tumors (benign or cancerous) can exert pressure and disrupt the peripheral nervous system leading to neuropathy. Trauma, such as surgical procedures or injury, can cause stretching and swelling, damaging the nerves. This can be centralized in one area and can cause short, long-term, or permanent nerve damage.
8. Blood circulation issues
Circulation issues, such as vascular disorder or due to posture, like when you sleep or sit in a certain posture, can lead to temporary or permanent nerve damage. Posture-related concerns can fade quickly after adjusting your position. In cases of circulation disorders, the lack of blood flow to replenish the nerves can cause significant or permanent damage leading to neuropathy.
Neuropathy can significantly impact your lifestyle. The pain and concerns like difficulty walking can affect how you manage your daily living activities, affecting the quality of your life. Understanding the common risk factors and taking appropriate measures is recommended. Seeking immediate medical attention is also critical if you notice any signs. Visit Progressive Spine & Sports Medicine today for more on neuropathy, risk factors, symptoms, and treatments available.
