From Diabetes to Trauma: The Top Triggers of Neuropathy

Neuropathy is a distressing medical condition that is estimated to affect over 20 million people in the US, but what triggers neuropathy, and what can you do to prevent or manage the condition?

Understanding neuropathy

Individuals with neuropathy encounter damage in their peripheral nerve cells, which are responsible for transmitting signals between the brain and other parts of the body.  When these nerves are harmed it means that communication is disrupted, leading to pain and sometimes a complete loss of sensation.

The symptoms of neuropathy include:

• Sharp, throbbing or burning pain
• Heightened sensitivity to touch
• Tingling or numbness, particularly in the hands or feet
• Muscle weakness and even paralysis in cases where the motor nerves are impacted.

As the condition worsens, patients may experience emotional distress, imbalance and trouble sleeping.

Types of Neuropathy

There are 4 main types of neuropathy:

• Motor neuropathy: Caused by damage to nerve cells that control muscles and movement. Patients with motor neuropathy will often experience loss of control and coordination of their limbs or trouble speaking.
• Sensory neuropathy: Sensory feelings, such as a light touch to the skin or pain, are controlled by sensory nerves. Damage to this group of nerves can cause patients to lose those important ‘feeling’ senses.
• Autonomic nerve neuropathy: Damage to autonomic nerves can be hazardous, as these nerves regulate involuntary functions like heartbeat and breathing. When these nerves are compromised, it can result in significant respiratory and heart-related issues.
• Combination neuropathies: The most common combination of neuropathies is motor and sensory, with many patients suffering from a loss of sensation and motor control. Other combinations of neuropathic pain are also possible.

Hopefully, this has given you a better understanding of neuropathy. Now let’s get to the crux of this post:

What triggers neuropathy?

#1 Diabetes

Diabetes is the most prevalent cause of neuropathy, affecting up to 50% of people with diabetes. High glucose (blood sugar) levels can damage nerves throughout the body, especially those in the legs and feet.

High sugar levels affect the tiny blood vessels that supply nutrients and oxygen to the nerves, leading to poor nerve health and symptoms like:

• Tingling or burning sensations
• Numbness or inability to feel temperature changes
• Muscle weakness
• Sharp, jabbing pain

What action to take: It’s imperative to control your blood sugar levels to either prevent neuropathy or slow its progression. If you have diabetes, regular monitoring of blood glucose, exercising and maintaining a healthy diet, can all help minimize nerve damage. Here is a link to an article detailing the 5 best foods to eat for diabetic neuropathy.

#2 Infection

Certain infections can trigger neuropathy by directly attacking nerve tissue or by causing widespread inflammation. Bacterial and viral infections such as Lyme disease, HIV/AIDS, shingles, and hepatitis C can all cause neuropathy. For example, long-term nerve pain called postherpetic neuralgia or PHN for short, is one of the most common complications of shingles. It can last for months or years after the shingles rash has gone, and is extremely painful.

What action to take: To minimize nerve damage, early treatment of infections is key. Vaccinating against shingles, treating Lyme disease promptly and managing chronic infections like HIV are vital steps in preventing neuropathy associated with infections.

#3 Vitamin Deficiencies

Specific vitamin deficiencies, particularly B vitamins, can contribute to neuropathy. Vitamin B12 plays a vital role in managing nerve health, and a shortage can lead to significant nerve damage and symptoms like tingling, numbness, and weakness. 

What action to take: Ensure you’re eating a well-balanced, nutritious diet or taking supplements, especially if you’re deficient in certain vitamins. Food rich in Vitamin B, like leafy greens, lean meats and whole grains, help support nerve health.

#4 Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases such as Guillain-Barré syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis and lupus are all triggers of neuropathy because they cause the body’s immune system to attack healthy nerve tissue, resulting in inflammation and nerve damage.

Symptoms associated with autoimmune-related neuropathy often include loss of coordination, muscle weakness and chronic pain.

What action to take: Treatment for autoimmune conditions revolves around immunosuppressive medications to reduce inflammation and prevent further nerve damage. Managing the underlying autoimmune disease is critical in controlling neuropathy symptoms.

#5 Chemotherapy and Other Medications

Neuropathy is a side effect of chemotherapy drugs for approximately 30-40% of cancer patients. This type of nerve damage can cause symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and burning in the hands and feet even after treatment has finished.

Other medications like anticonvulsants, heart or blood pressure pills, and certain antibiotics can, in some cases, trigger neuropathy.

Action to take: If you’re undergoing chemotherapy or taking any medications that raise the risk of neuropathy, ask your health provider about potential alternatives or dosage adjustments.

#6 Trauma or Physical Injury

Another significant cause of neuropathy is physical trauma. Injuries from falls, surgeries, and accidents can directly damage nerves, especially in the case of deep wounds or broken bones. Repetitive stress or overuse injuries can also compress the nerves and lead to neuropathy symptoms.

Traumatic injuries disrupt nerve signals, leading to pain, weakness, or loss of sensation in the affected area. On occasions, nerve damage may heal itself, but in other cases, it can lead to long-term or permanent neuropathy.

Action to take: It’s essential to take proper care of an injury. If physical trauma has caused nerve damage, medication and physical therapy may help alleviate your symptoms. Wearing protective gear and avoiding repetitive stress motions can help prevent injury-related neuropathy.

Take control of your nerve health and regain your quality of life today

By understanding what triggers neuropathy and addressing the major causes, you can take steps to protect your nerve health and minimize the impact to life of this condition. Whether it’s managing blood sugar levels or seeking treatment for infection, proactive care can make a significant difference in preventing and managing neuropathy.

If you're experiencing signs of neuropathy, take action now. Visit MINT STL to learn more about cutting-edge treatments and personalized care options for neuropathy. Take control of your nerve health and improve your quality of life today.