neuropathy lifestyle tips for patients

Overview

Neuropathy is a condition that affects your nerves, usually in your hands and feet. It can cause tingling, numbness, pain, or weakness. It happens when nerves are damaged or not working properly.

Yes, neuropathy is fairly common. Many people experience some form of nerve damage, especially as they get older or if they have conditions like diabetes.

Neuropathy can affect anyone, but it is more common in older adults, people with diabetes, and those with certain vitamin deficiencies or a family history of nerve problems.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Tingling or a 'pins and needles' feeling in the hands or feet
• Numbness or reduced ability to feel pain or temperature
• Sharp, burning, or throbbing pain
• Weakness in the arms or legs
• Sensitivity to touch

Symptoms in children

• In children, neuropathy symptoms can be similar to adults, but they may have trouble describing them.
• Look for clumsiness, frequent falls, or complaints of 'weird feelings' in their legs or hands.
• Children may also have changes in how they walk or trouble holding small objects.

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults often have more noticeable numbness, which can increase the risk of falls.
• They may also have reduced balance and coordination.
• Skin changes, such as dryness or thinning, are more common in older adults with neuropathy.

Causes

Main causes

• Diabetes is the most common cause of neuropathy.
• Injuries or physical pressure on a nerve, like carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Infections, such as shingles or Lyme disease.
• Exposure to certain toxins or heavy metals.
• Vitamin deficiencies, particularly B vitamins.
• Autoimmune conditions, where your body's immune system attacks its own nerves.

Risk factors

• Having diabetes, especially if blood sugar levels are not well controlled.
• Being older.
• Having kidney or liver disease.
• Drinking too much alcohol.
• Having a family history of nerve problems.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have sudden or severe weakness, especially on one side of your body.
• If numbness or pain spreads quickly or affects both sides of your body.
• If you have trouble breathing, swallowing, or speaking.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have ongoing tingling, numbness, or pain in your hands or feet.
• If you notice changes in balance or coordination.
• If you have diabetes and experience any new symptoms of nerve damage.

Diagnosis

A doctor will talk with you about your symptoms, do a physical exam, and may run some tests to check how well your nerves are working.

Tests that may be done

• Nerve conduction study, which measures how fast electrical signals travel through your nerves.
• Electromyography (EMG), which checks the electrical activity in your muscles.
• Blood tests to check for diabetes, vitamin levels, and other health conditions.
• Nerve biopsy, where a small piece of nerve is removed for testing (rare).

What to expect at your appointment

You may be referred to a neurologist, a doctor who specializes in nervous system problems. The tests are usually done as an outpatient, and they are generally not painful, though the electrical tests may feel a little uncomfortable.

Treatment

Treatment for neuropathy focuses on two things: managing the underlying cause and relieving your symptoms. Your doctor may suggest a combination of lifestyle changes, medicines, and other therapies.

Self-care at home

• Protect your feet – check them daily for cuts, blisters, or sores.
• Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes and keep your feet clean and dry.
• Stop smoking, as it can make nerve damage worse.
• Limit alcohol, because heavy drinking can worsen neuropathy.
• Manage stress with relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.

Medical treatments

Depending on the cause, your doctor may prescribe treatments to control blood sugar, reduce inflammation, or ease nerve pain. Physical therapy can help with strength and balance. There are also prescription medicines for nerve pain that are not over-the-counter pain relievers. Always talk to your doctor about what's right for you.

When is surgery considered?

In some cases, surgery may be needed to relieve pressure on a nerve, for example, with carpal tunnel syndrome. This is only recommended if other treatments haven't helped.

Living with this condition

Living with neuropathy means paying extra attention to your body, especially your feet and hands. You may need to make small changes around your home to avoid falls, like having good lighting and removing loose rugs.

Lifestyle tips

• Exercise regularly – gentle activities like walking, swimming, or yoga can improve blood flow and reduce pain.
• Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to keep your nerves healthy.
• Get enough sleep – rest helps your body repair nerve damage.
• Keep your blood sugar in a healthy range if you have diabetes.
• Join a support group to connect with others who understand what you're going through.

Diet and exercise

A healthy diet with essential vitamins, especially B vitamins, can support nerve health. Regular exercise helps improve circulation and can reduce pain. It also helps with balance and strength, which can prevent falls.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with chronic pain or numbness can be stressful and sometimes lead to anxiety or depression. It's important to acknowledge these feelings and talk with your doctor or a counselor. You are not alone.

Prevention

Not all neuropathy can be prevented, but you can lower your risk by managing conditions like diabetes, avoiding excessive alcohol, eating a nutritious diet, and protecting yourself from injuries.

Vaccines

Some infections that can cause neuropathy, such as shingles, can be prevented with vaccines. Talk to your healthcare provider about which vaccines are right for you.

Screening programmes

If you have diabetes, it's important to have regular check-ups that include a foot exam. Screening can catch nerve damage early, even before you have symptoms.

Complications

If left untreated

• Foot problems, like ulcers (open sores), that can become serious if you don't feel them.
• Falls and injuries due to numbness and weakness.
• Muscle weakness or loss of muscle mass.
• Difficulty walking or performing everyday tasks.

Long-term outlook

Many people with neuropathy live full, active lives. With proper care, how you take care of yourself can make a big difference. Some types of neuropathy improve with treatment, while others can be managed well. It's important to work closely with your healthcare team and stay positive – there is hope.

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