Neuropathy

What causes neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to nerve damage. But neuropathy has many types, and the symptoms you experience vary depending on your specific diagnosis. Common causes of neuropathy include:

• Inherited disorders
• Abnormal growths or tumors
• Cancer treatments, like chemotherapy
• Blood sugar fluctuations due to diabetes
• Autoimmune diseases, including lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
• Nerve pressure or trauma, possibly from a herniated disc or vehicular accident

Sometimes, however, neuropathy has no identifiable cause. This is known as idiopathic neuropathy.

Without proper treatment, no matter the cause, neuropathy can progress and lead to permanent nerve damage and worsening symptoms. This is why early intervention is so important at the first sign of symptoms.

How do I know if I have neuropathy?

Neuropathy leads to a broad spectrum of symptoms, depending on the affected nerve — or nerves. When you have neuropathy, you may experience:

• Pain, tingling, or numbness in your limbs (peripheral neuropathy)
• Extreme sensitivity to touch and environmental temperatures
• Widespread muscle weakness or difficulty walking
• Loss of bowel or bladder functions
• Lack of coordination

In some cases, neuropathy can lead to changes in your blood pressure, which can leave you feeling dizzy or lightheaded. If any of these symptoms sound familiar, schedule an evaluation at Blue Ridge Pain Management Associates before your neuropathy progresses any further.

Can I get treatment for neuropathy?

The pain specialists at Blue Ridge Pain Management Associates offer the latest neuropathy treatment solutions, so you can get relief and restore your quality of life. Your neuropathy treatment plan may include:

• Botox® injections
• Antidepressant drugs
• Spinal cord stimulator (SCS)
• Topical capsaicin numbing creams
• Specialized anti-seizure medications
• Image-guided nerve blocks and injections
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

If you’ve suffered from muscle wasting and weakness, you may benefit from regular physical therapy sessions, too. Your dedicated pain specialist at Blue Ridge Pain Management Associates works diligently to ensure you get the neuropathy relief you need and begin to heal as quickly as possible.

With neuropathy, you have plenty of options for relief at Blue Ridge Pain Management Associates. You can conveniently book your neuropathy exam either online or over the phone.