What Are the Treatments for Peripheral Neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition in which the nervous system is damaged, specifically nerves in the extremities, such as hands, arms, feet and legs. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, burning and shooting pain. It may also result in muscle weakness and difficulty in gripping objects. Peripheral neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes; however, it can also be caused by kidney disease, AIDS, lupus, liver disease, Guillain-Barre syndrome, hypothyroidism, physical trauma and alcoholism.
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Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
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For patients with neuropathy that is caused by diabetes, controlling blood sugar levels to avoid extreme blood sugar fluctuations is the best way to prevent and treat peripheral neuropathy. Blood sugar fluctuations can cause nerve damage, specifically to the myelin sheath, although scientists are unsure why this happens. Chromium can help stabilize blood sugar levels.
Medications
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If you prefer traditional medications to alternative supplements, talk to your doctor about options such as gabapentin, pregabalin, phenytoin, topiramate and carbamazepine. These drugs are traditionally used as anti-seizure medications; however, they can also help with nerve pain. The side effects of these drugs include dizziness and drowsiness.
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Topical Applications
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Try rubbing capsaicin cream over the affected area. Be sure not to get any in your eyes, as it will burn. You can also try a lidocaine patch, which is a topical anesthetic. Use no more than three patches per day. You may experience a rash at the area from using this patch.
Vitamins
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Vitamin B complex is essential for nerve health. Take a supplement to ensure that you get your recommended daily allowance. Natural sources include wheat germ, legumes, nuts, whole grains, brewer's yeast, eggs and leafy green vegetables. Make sure you get enough vitamin E as well. Natural sources include leafy green vegetables, seeds, nuts and whole grains.
Other Supplements
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Alpha lipoic acid can help repair nerve damage. Take 20 to 50 mg daily. Actyl L-carnitine, selenium and evening primrose oil (which is high in gamma-linolenic acid) can also help treat neuropathy.
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