Neuropathy or peripheral neuropathy is a condition that is caused by damage to the peripheral nerves. People who suffer from neuropathy tend to feel a sense of numbness, constantly feel weak and experience pain in different parts of the body. However, the feet and the hands are more likely to be damaged by neuropathy.

Neuropathy is an effect of damage that is caused due to some injury, infections, metabolic problems, genetics and more. Diabetes is believed to be the most common cause of neuropathy. The nerves can be damaged due to several factors, and here are a few common causes:

Tumors – Growth in the body that causes the nerve to get pressed or develops on the nerve can lead to neuropathy. This can arise irrespective of whether the tumor is noncancerous or cancerous.

Vitamin deficiencies – When the body has a deficiency of vital vitamins such as vitamin E, vitamin C, etc., it can damage the overall health of the nerves.

Excess alcohol consumption – People who are alcoholics and have an unhealthy diet choice are at a higher risk of suffering from neuropathy.

Exposure to poisons – Being exposed to toxins in the environment and consuming the same in any way, is a common cause of neuropathy.

The symptoms that one experiences in neuropathy depend upon the nerve that is damaged. The onset begins with a mind sting or pricking that may begin in the arms or legs and move towards other parts of the body. The muscles feel weak and paralyzed. Symptoms may also be experienced through bowel and bladder problems.

If one thinks that they have symptoms that indicate towards neuropathy, one should immediately visit a physician. Before diagnosis, the doctor will carry out a physical examination followed by several blood tests. The doctor will preview the full medical history and the patient should update the doctor on all the symptoms, the lifestyle, family history and more.

The treatment for neuropathy includes ways to manage the condition and to relieve the pain that is caused by the symptoms. The treatment for neuropathy will be a continuous dosage of pain relievers such as anti-inflammatory drugs that are used to bring some comfort that is caused by burning pain. The doctor will also recommend a list of topical treatments for neuropathy that have to be applied to the area on the skin which is irritated, bringing improvements in the symptoms over time. Therapies to help in easing the pain, daily physical therapy will help in improving movements. Apart from medical treatment for neuropathy, there are lifestyle habits that one must alter and can practice home treatments for neuropathy to bring about better results. Here are a few self-management and lifestyle changes that will ease the pain and symptoms of neuropathy:

Consume healthy meals – An individual who suffers from neuropathy should essentially follow a healthy diet. This is important to get enough vitamins and minerals that are required to maintain the health of the nerves and the overall body. Eating fresh fruits and vegetables, coupled with whole grains will reduce the ill-effects and severity of the condition. Also, eating low-fat meats and dairy products on a daily basis is essential.

Give-up smoking – Smoking has an ill-effect on the overall health of the body. It not only deteriorates the health of the lungs but has an influence on the blood circulation, making a route for more complications. It raises the risk of nerve damage, and one who suffers from the condition should immediately quit smoking.

Vitamin C – Vitamin C is essential to keep the immune system strong. It also reduces the pain that is caused in the nerves and fastens the healing process. One should consume foods that are packed with vitamin C, and these include lemons, broccoli, and oranges. Vitamin C supplements can be popped too, however, only after consulting one’s physician.

Exercise regularly – If diabetes is the cause of neuropathy, regular exercising is the best way to manage the symptoms and reduce pain. It helps in maintaining a healthy weight, increases movement in arms and legs, strengthens the body’s muscles and controls blood sugar.

Keep stress at bay – Stress will further alleviate the level of pain and bring along other complications that will slow the process of treatment for neuropathy. Keeping stress away and involving oneself in soothing activities will reduce stress levels. Meditating and joining a yoga group are easy ways of eliminating negative thoughts from the mind and feeling more relaxed.

Pay attention to further nerve damage – A patient should pay special attention to any new symptoms and nerve damage on the feets, legs, etc. Blisters, cuts or injuries should be immediately brought to the notice of the physician as these may be signs of further damage taking place.

In some cases, neuropathy may be caused by the growth of a tumor on a nerve. This is when a doctor will propose undergoing surgery to reduce further damage and pressure on the nerve.