There are 8 million cases of peripheral neuropathy in the United States today which arise from multifactorial causes. Dr. Ghalali provides treatment for peripheral neuropathy to patients that come to him from across the country seeking recovery for their symptoms.
Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment
What is peripheral neuropathy?
Peripheral Neuropathy is damage to the nerves that exist outside of the brain and spinal cord. It typically causes weakness, numbness, burning, or paresthesia in the lower extremities. Your peripheral nerves are vital for sending sensory information to the spinal cord and brain which allows you to know if something is too hot for example. Neuropathy can also affect organs of the body leading to cardiac arrythmias, bladder incontinence, and gut motility issues.
Why does peripheral neuropathy occur?
Vascular disease can lead to peripheral neuropathy by narrowing of the blood supply reducing oxygenation to the nerve fibers. Endothelial dysfunction from heart disease restricts the amount of blood flow to extremities. The breakdown of a compound called myoinositol alters myelin sheath surrounding the nerves leading to a vulnerable nerve fiber. The myelin sheath breaks down and you end up with a nerve fiber that can’t send the proper signal.
What Are the Types of Peripheral Neuropathy?
Let’s break down the different types of neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy encompasses various types, including diabetic neuropathy, alcoholic neuropathy, and chemotherapy-induced neuropathy. Other types may arise from autoimmune disorders, infections, or inherited conditions. Each type exhibits distinct symptoms and requires specific treatment approaches. Consulting a healthcare professional is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
- Diabetes Mellitus – Affecting small nerve fibers
- Peripheral – Affecting small, medium, and large fibers
- Medication Induced – Spontaneous (will discuss in detail)
- Alcoholic Neuropathy – Large fiber neuropathy due to thiamine deficiency
How Bad Can Peripheral Neuropathy Get?
Peripheral Neuropathy can lead to poor capillary refill where blood flow return is slowed, reducing oxygenation to peripheral extremities, which can then in turn lead to ulcers due to loss of sensation. The burning can be so intense it can feel like a blowtorch is being applied to the skin. The pins and needles sensation can become extremely painful in some cases.
What Causes Peripheral Neuropathy?
Neuropathy is caused by damage to the myelin sheath which protects the nerve from injury. In our experience, the number one cause of peripheral neuropathy are medication induced side effects. Typically, the fluoridated medications can lead to peripheral neuropathy, these include fluoroquinolone antibiotics, antidepressants, chemotherapy, and statin medications to mention a few. When the protective layer of the nerve called the endoneurium is compromised, this can lead to neuropathy.
How to Treat Peripheral Neuropathy
Regenerative Medicine LA - Helping Peripheral Neuropathy in Los Angeles, CA
Peripheral Neuropathy treatment starts with finding the underlying cause, usually medication or toxin induced. Once the etiology is determined, regenerative treatment is used to repair the damaged nerves and the collagen fibers that protect the nerves from further injury. The endoneurium surrounding each myelin sheath is comprised of collagen which is integral for nerve protection. Vitamins like Alpha Lipoic Acid, Magnesium, and Thiamine play an integral role in healthy nerve cells. Our Regenerative programs offer customized high dose IV intensive therapy to combat peripheral neuropathy with great success.
Peripheral Neuropathy FAQs
Can you die from peripheral neuropathy?
While peripheral neuropathy itself is not typically life-threatening, it can lead to complications that may have serious consequences. If left untreated, the underlying causes of neuropathy, such as diabetes or infections, can pose significant health risks. So while, peripheral neuropathy is not necessarily a life threatening condition, the pain may become unbearable to the point where strong pain medications may be the only way to subside the symptoms. Early diagnosis and proper management are crucial to prevent potential complications. Getting peripheral neuropathy under control early on is vital for long term success.
How is peripheral neuropathy typically diagnosed?
Peripheral neuropathy is typically diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. Here are the common steps involved in diagnosing peripheral neuropathy:
- Medical History
- Physical Examination
- Neurological Examination
- Laboratory Tests
- Electromyography (EMG)
- Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS)
- Skin Biopsy
It’s important to note that the specific diagnostic process may vary depending on the suspected cause of peripheral neuropathy and the individual patient’s circumstances. A healthcare professional will determine the appropriate tests based on your symptoms and medical history.
