How to Prevent Neuropathy

Neuropathy is short for peripheral neuropathy and encompasses any disease which adversely affects the human nervous system. Peripheral neuropathy primarily affects a person's feet and legs. Peripheral neuropathy is not a disease alone, but is a complication of other conditions. It can be caused by herpes zoster, HIV-AIDS, toxins, alcoholism and other autoimmune conditions. There are steps which can be taken to prevent or hinder the development of peripheral neuropathy.

Instructions

• 1

  Be careful when playing sports or doing any sort of physical activity. Neuropathy can be caused by any sort of direct injury to the nerve, which can happen easily if one is playing sports without protective gear.

• 2

  Avoid putting pressure repeatedly on a nerve, as when using crutches or typing. Repetitive pressure can also be caused by a tumor.

• 3

  Take precautions against getting a viral infection, which can lead to neuropathy. The herpes virus can cause neuropathy.

• 4

  Take special care if you are afflicted with diabetes, lupus, arthritis, celiac disease or are an alcoholic. These diseases put one at a greater risk of contracting neuropathy.

• 5

  Avoid exposure to certain poisons and medecines. Cancer medicines in particular may be harmful in the prevention of neuropathy.

• 6

  Get plenty of vitamins to strengthen your immune system. Vitamin B-12 in particular is important in the prevention of neuropathy.

• 7

  Avoid any kind of electrical injury.