How to Relieve Neuropathy
Neuropathy is a form of nerve damage that affects as many as 20 million Americans, according to The Neuropathy Association. Peripheral neuropathy is the most common form of the disease. People with peripheral neuropathy experience pain, burning, tingling or numbness in their extremities, especially in their feet. Lifestyle changes, treating underlying medical conditions, and medications can all relieve neuropathy.Things You'll Need
- Medication
- Vitamin supplements
Instructions
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Schedule a physical exam with your primary care physician to determine the cause of your neuropathy. Diabetes accounts for up to 30 percent of peripheral neuropathy cases, states The Neuropathy Association. Treating the underlying cause can relieve many of the symptoms of neuropathy. Some patients may suffer from idiopathic neuropathy, which means the cause of the problem is not known.
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Exercise, if you are able, to help relieve neuropathy pain. The Mayo Clinic explains that regular exercise can help reduce the amount of discomfort, and can also help keep blood glucose at appropriate levels, which is beneficial to neuropathy sufferers. Speak to your doctor about types of exercise that you can try.
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Eat a well-balanced diet. The National Institutes of Health report that some people who suffer from neuropathic pain are deficient in vitamin B-12 and other essential nutrients. Eat a variety of fresh produce, whole grains and lean sources of protein in order to stay healthy. Discuss with your doctor or nutritionist the option of using vitamin supplements to boost your intake if needed.
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Take medications to control your pain. Dr. Thomas H. Branagan III explains in an article posted on The Neuropathy Association website that tri-cylic antidepressant medications may effectively manage neuropathic pain in some patients. The Mayo Clinic adds that over-the-counter NSAID medications such as ibuprofen, or topical patches containing anesthetics, may also help relieve neuropathy symptoms.
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