Neuropathy is a condition caused by nerve damage. It can result from conditions such as diabetes, treatments such as chemotherapy, and certain medications. Neuropathy is not a single health condition but a term used to describe a myriad of health issues involving damaged peripheral nerves.
Signs and Symptoms of Neuropathy
The signs and symptoms of neuropathy depend on the individual and the underlying cause. According to the Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), the symptoms of this condition include:
- Increased sensitivity to touch
- Muscle wasting or weakness
- Paralysis
- Pain
- Impairment to sexual function or urination
- Tingling, burning sensation, or prickling.
- Dysfunction in glands or organs
How does Neuropathy Act in the Body?
The two main parts of a human’s nervous system are: the peripheral nervous system that enables communications between the nervous system and the rest of the body, and the central nervous system – which includes the spinal code and the brain. The peripheral nervous system is divided into two. The somatic – or a voluntary nervous system that controls all the functions we can consciously control (e.g., moving limbs). In addition, the autonomic or involuntary nervous system that controls processes we can’t control (e.g., digestion, breathing, and heartbeat). Neuropathy occurs after damage or disruption of both the involuntary and voluntary peripheral nerves
Who is affected by Neuropathy?
In general, neuropathy affects 1-2% of Americans. It is estimated that 10-20% of cancer patients have some form of peripheral neuropathy. Specifically, the cancer types associated with a higher risk of neuropathy include breast, ovarian, myeloma, testicular, lung, Hodgkin’s disease, and lymphoma. However, certain diagnoses and treatments can increase one’s risks, e.g., surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
Other factors include:
- Malnourishment
- Excessive use of alcohol
- Advanced age
- A family history of neuropathy
- Preexisting medical conditions such as thyroid dysfunction
Medications that may increase the risk of neuropathy include:
- Taxanes
- Vinca alkaloids
- Misonidazole
- Platinum compounds
- … and more!
How does Neuropathy Affect Your Life?
Neuropathy can have adverse effects on the overall quality of life. It can compromise how you carry on with your daily activities. This condition’s symptoms range from mild to severe. With proper treatment, these symptoms can be managed easily.
Goals of Our Neuropathy Treatment Services
Depending on the cause of neuropathy and the nerve damage involved, your healthcare team may recommend a number of treatment options to achieve the following goals:
- Restore and/or improve your balance
- Ensure that you can get a good night’s sleep abd reducing reliance on medications
- Make sure you always have energy for work and hobbies
- Relieve pain so that you can enjoy more time with kids or grandkids
- Eliminate pain, tingling, and numbness in lower extremities
- Eliminate all worries associated with neuropathy
Enjoy peace of mind knowing that RejuvenX will provide the right treatment through X-rays, muscle function testing, orthopedic evaluations, neurological evaluations, and pharmacogenetic testing.