How to Cope With Nerve Damage
Nerve damage can result from injuries, medications, or certain illnesses or conditions, and can be a painful condition that can be permanent, depending on the cause. You can do several things to cope with nerve damage and the resulting discomfort.
Instructions
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Talk to your doctor about medications to ease symptoms. Several medications act on pain in different ways and can relieve nerve pain. They include antidepressants, anticonvulsants, steroids and narcotic pain killers. Take any medications as directed and let your doctor know how they are working for you and any side effects you are experiencing. You might have to experiment with different medications to find one suitable for you. Never stop or alter your treatments without consulting your physician.
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Exercise to relieve nerve pain. Talk to your doctor about designing an appropriate regimen that will not aggravate your condition. Listen to your body when you are exercising and do not push yourself.
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Massage the affected areas lightly. This can relieve pain and improve circulation. You can do this on your own or have someone do it for you.
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Avoid applying prolonged pressure on affected areas. This will compress the nerves and cause pain.
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Use natural therapies. Dr. Andrew Weil, alternative medicine expert, suggests supplementing with a B-complex vitamin daily and 300mg of alpha lipoic acid. These nutrients are vital for nerve health. He also suggests that acupuncture might relieve nerve pain. Reflexology might be beneficial for nerve damage on the legs, toes and feet. Always visit licensed practitioners.
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