Neuropathy

 Neuropathy refers to damage or dysfunction of one or more nerves, typically causing numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, and pain in the affected area. It most often affects the hands and feet, but it can occur anywhere in the body.

🧠 Types of Neuropathy

1. Peripheral Neuropathy – most common; affects peripheral nerves (e.g., hands, feet).

2. Autonomic Neuropathy – affects involuntary body functions (e.g., heart rate, digestion).

3. Focal Neuropathy – sudden damage to a single nerve or group (e.g., facial, wrist).

4. Proximal Neuropathy – affects nerves closer to the hips, thighs, or buttocks.

⚠️ Common Causes

Diabetes (most common cause)

B12 deficiency

Alcohol abuse

Chemotherapy

Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, RA)

Infections (e.g., shingles, HIV)

Toxins and medications

Genetic conditions (e.g., Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease)

Kidney or liver disease

🔬 Symptoms

Numbness or reduced ability to feel pain or temperature

Tingling or burning sensations

Sharp or jabbing pain

Muscle weakness

Loss of coordination

Sensitivity to touch

In autonomic types: dizziness, GI issues, abnormal sweating

🩺 Diagnosis

Physical and neurological exams

Blood tests (B12, glucose, thyroid, autoimmune markers)

EMG/NCS (Electromyography & Nerve Conduction Studies)

MRI (if structural causes are suspected)

Skin or nerve biopsy (rarely)

💊 Treatment Options

1. Address Underlying Cause

Control diabetes

Correct deficiencies (B12, folate)

Stop offending drugs/toxins

2. Medications for Symptoms

Pain relief: Gabapentin, Pregabalin, Duloxetine, Amitriptyline

Topical: Capsaicin cream, lidocaine patches

Supplements:

Alpha-lipoic acid

Acetyl-L-carnitine

B-complex vitamins (especially B1, B6, B12)

Magnesium

3. Lifestyle & Physical Therapy

Regular gentle exercise

Avoiding alcohol

Physical/occupational therapy

Acupuncture (for some)

🥦 Nutrition Tips

High in antioxidants: berries, green leafy vegetables

B-vitamin rich foods: eggs, meat, dairy, legumes

Avoid processed sugars and alcohol

Some on ketogenic or carnivore diets report neuropathy improvements, especially with glucose control