Early Onset Neuropathy

Neuropathy is a nerve condition. It is often referred to as peripheral neuropathy, as it affects the nerves that are peripheral to the brain and spinal cord in the central nervous system. The peripheral nerves control sensors (heat, pain, touch), muscle movement and the autonomic functions, such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion and bladder function. Often, neuropathy will express itself in tingling and numbness of the extremities. There is also a sensation of burning and pain. Early onset neuropathy can be a symptom of a number of other diseases, including diabetes, vitamin B12 and other deficiencies, tumors, stroke, infection or genetic diseases.

Symptoms

• Nerves can literally be frayed.

  See a doctor immediately if you are experiencing symptoms like tingling or burning sensation in the hands and/or feet; sharp burning pain or the feeling of an electric shock; sensitivity to even the lightest touch; bowel or bladder problems; lack of coordination or muscle weakness. The earlier treatment is sought, the more successful it will be in controlling symptoms.

Causes

• Auto accident trauma is one cause of neuropathy.

  The underlying causes of neuropathy vary greatly. The National Institute of Health classifies the causes into four main categories. Physical injury or trauma is seen most often in automobile accidents, falls and sports-related injuries. The nerve can often be damaged or even severed by a broken bone or pinched by dislocated vertebrae. Systemic diseases include diabetes (the most prevalent cause in this category), kidney disease, hormonal imbalance, vitamin deficiencies, cancers and benign tumors and repetitive motion. Infections and autoimmune disorders like herpes, Epstein-Barr virus, HIV and inflammation resulting from immune system reactions can also cause neuropathy. Neuropathy can also occur from genetic diseases.

Diagnosis

• Early detection is vital.

  It is vital to catch neuropathy at its earliest stages. Since there are many possible causes, a range of tests should be conducted to quickly identify the cause. There may be multiple factors.For example, a diabetic could also have a vitamin B12 deficiency. If this is the case, a two-prong treatment is necessary. Tests that may be necessary include a physical exam, blood tests, muscle strength tests, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), CT scan (computed tomography) and possibly nerve biopsies.

Treatment

• Vitamin deficiences can cause neuropathy.

  Prompt diagnosis and treatment can result in diminished symptoms. While there is no guarantee of a cure or reversal of the condition, the symptoms are treatable. The peripheral nerve can regenerate if the nerve cells themselves are not killed. If there is an underlying disease, such as diabetes or a vitamin deficiency, often aggressive treatment will stop the progression of neuropathy. If the disease is controlled, additional damage to the nerves can be halted. There are other lifestyle changes that can help. Losing weight and exercise will reduce the strain on the muscles and keep blood flow more constant. If you smoke, quit. Smoking constricts the blood flow to the extremities and exacerbates the symptoms. There are many treatments for the pain associated with neuropathy, including antidepressants. Surgeries can also relieve those who suffer from neuropathy due to back problems or carpal tunnel syndrome.

Research

• Research is ongoing to discover a cure.

  Federally funded research is being conducted to find out how the immune system contributes to neuropathic dysfunction, particularly the causes of inflammation. The goal of the therapies is to combat these inherited malfunctions. Other studies are being conducted to find out how to encourage the body's natural defenses that protect neurons and promote their survival. These are referred to as "neurotropic factors." It is hoped that this research will lead to treatment that can reverse neuropathic damage.