Neuropathy pain is caused by damage to the nerves. It can happen from injury, disease, or inflammation. When the nerves are damaged, they send signals to the brain interpreted as pain. Dr. Carlos Vazquez Fort Worth will be able to advise on the best way to manage pain and prevent flare-ups.
Many things can cause neuropathy pain to flare up, including changes in weather, stress, and activity level. Treatment for neuropathy pain typically focuses on relieving the symptoms. It can be done with:
- Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and acetaminophen (Tylenol), can help relieve neuropathy pain. Your doctor may also prescribe tricyclic antidepressants, anticonvulsants, or other medications to help ease the pain.
- Therapy: Physical therapy, Occupational therapy, and other therapy forms can help relieve pain and improve function.
- Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve the pressure on the nerves.
Keep reading to learn more about the causes of neuropathy pain:
1. Diabetes
One of the most common causes of neuropathy pain is diabetes. When blood sugar levels are high, it can damage the nerves. This type of nerve damage is called diabetic neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy can cause a wide range of symptoms, including pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness. Treatment helps to manage blood sugar levels and relieve symptoms.
2. Injury
A nerve injury can cause pain; nerve damage is called traumatic neuropathy. Traumatic neuropathy often occurs after an injury, such as a car accident or fall. Treatment typically focuses on relieving symptoms and protecting the affected area from further damage.
3. Inflammation
Inflammation of the nerves can also cause neuropathy pain. This type of nerve damage is called inflammatory neuropathy. Inflammatory neuropathy often occurs due to an autoimmune disorder, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. Treatment reduces inflammation and relieves symptoms.
4. Alcoholism
Heavy alcohol use can damage the nerves and cause neuropathy pain. This type of nerve damage is called alcoholic neuropathy. Alcoholic neuropathy often occurs in people who drink heavily for many years. Treatment involves abstaining from alcohol and managing symptoms.
5. Obesity
Being obese or overweight can put pressure on the nerves and cause neuropathy pain. This type of nerve damage is called obesity-related neuropathy. Obesity-related neuropathy often occurs in people who are obese or have a large waistline. Treatment involves losing weight and managing symptoms.
6. Vitamin B12 Deficiency
A vitamin B12 deficiency can also cause neuropathy pain. This type of nerve damage is called vitamin B12 neuropathy. Vitamin B12 neuropathy often occurs in people who don’t have enough vitamin B12 in their diet. Treatment involves taking vitamin B12 supplements and managing symptoms.
7. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy can damage the nerves and cause neuropathy pain. This type of nerve damage is called chemotherapy-induced neuropathy. Chemotherapy-induced neuropathy often occurs in people who are undergoing cancer treatment.
8. Kidney Disease
Kidney disease can also cause neuropathy pain. This type of nerve damage is called renal neuropathy. Renal neuropathy often occurs in people who have kidney disease. Treatment involves managing symptoms and protecting the affected area from further damage.
If you are experiencing neuropathy pain, talk to your doctor at the Neuropathy and Pain Centers of Texas about managing it. Many options are available, and a treatment plan can be tailored to suit your treatment needs.