Neuropathy (also known as Peripheral neuropathy) is a condition wherein the nerves of the body are damaged (from injury or disease) and thus fail to function normally. This affects the communication between the nerves and the brain. It is a fairly common condition and can affect people of all ages. It is however, more common in men and the elderly, and those with a family history of inherited neuropathy.
A multifocal approach is required to address the symptoms and treat the cause while providing relief to the patient.
- Underlying Cause: This entails detecting and treating the original cause of the neuropathy, as that can then lead to recovery by first healing the damaged nerves and regrowth of destroyed nerves. For instance if it is a complication of diabetes, regulating the blood sugar levels, losing weight and exercising morewill be the aim of treatment. For vitamin deficiency, start on B12 injections or supplements. In case of an infection, treat with antibiotics; if it due to a drug side-effect, stop that medication right away. Patients who suffer from autoimmune conditions can try immunosuppressive drugs, immunoglobulins, antibiotics or plasma transfusions to reduce inflammation.
- Pain relief: Nerve pain often needs painkillers starting with paracetamol and ibuprofen and then moving up to stronger drugs like tramadol, which is an opioid. Other approaches known to ease neuropathic pain include medication used to treat depression, anxiety, epilepsy and headaches experienced by patients. This means that an anti-depressant may be prescribed even if the patient is not depressed. Such drugs commonly include nortriptyline, SSRIs, gabapentin, tapenodol (new drug approved for diabetic neuropathy) etc. Lidocaine in patch and ointment form and capsaicin cream (a substance found in hot chilies) is found to provide relief from localized pain and itching. In some cases such as Trigeminal neuralgia, Carpel Tunnel, Slipped disc etc. Surgery can help ease the nerve compression. TENS or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation is a non-invasive method known to improve neuropathic pain and is commonly used in diabetic neuropathy.
- Symptom relief: Respite from symptoms can greatly aid in providing comfort and reducing the patient’s distress. For example, physiotherapy can help patients who have muscle weakness. Occupational therapy and mechanical aids like orthopedic shoes or braces can help cope with balance and movement issues. Symptoms such as urinary incontinence, impotence, constipation etc. can benefit from appropriate medications to treat the same. Blood pressure medications and monitoring can help patients with hypotension. Patients can also avail of complimentary therapies such as acupuncture, ayurvedic herbs and supplements for relief. Make sure to always get your doctor’s approval before starting any complimentary therapies.
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