Neuropathic pain and discomfort can affect your life’s quality. Although this medical problem is incurable, neuropathy treatment Jacksonville FL can offer relief and halt the progression of the following distinct forms of the condition.
Peripheral Neuropathy
This common form of neuropathy affects the nerves that carry messages between the brain and spinal cord. It primarily affects the extremities, causing tingling, burning, numbness and weakness in the hands, arms, feet, legs, and sometimes, other body parts. Patients may also experience balance and coordination problems and muscle weakness.
Peripheral neuropathy is associated with various conditions, including systemic illnesses like diabetes and other autoimmune diseases, injury, trauma and inherited disorders. Treatment usually includes over-the-counter pain relievers for mild symptoms, but for more severe cases, the anti-seizure drugs, Gabapentin and Lyrica offer significant symptom relief. Nerve stimulation, surgery and physical therapy can also reduce pressure on nerves or strengthen weak muscles.
Autonomic Neuropathy
This neuropathy affects the nerves that control the non-sensory and involuntary body functions and the internal organs. Messages that travel from the brain and spinal cord throughout the body do not signal the various organ systems to perform as they should, resulting in cardiovascular, digestive, thermoregulatory, sexual and other problems. Common symptoms include dizziness and fainting, exercise intolerance, inability to empty the bladder and others forms of discomfort. Although treating autonomic neuropathy starts with managing the condition or disease that causes it, the symptoms respond to medications, dietary adjustments, lifestyle modifications and alternative therapies.
Proximal Neuropathy
This rare form of neuropathy usually has a sudden onset and causes burning, stabbing pain and weak muscles in the hips and thighs on one side of the body. The discomfort can become debilitating, and the condition is associated with diabetes in older people. Management of blood sugar levels and drugs to address nerve pain are common treatments to control symptoms though the condition is irreversible.
Cranial Neuropathy
Nerve damage can also occur in the brain and brainstem due to strokes, high blood pressure, tumors, infection or birth trauma. Symptoms include pain, tingling, muscle weakness and paralysis, skin sensitivity around the head and face, and vision disturbances. Although surgery can eliminate tumors contributing to nerve damage, cranial neuropathy symptoms are usually permanent despite the potential for relief through physical therapy.
Living with neuropathic pain and discomfort is challenging, but medical professionals and therapists can offer various treatments to help you find significant relief and regain your life.
