Neuropathy is a health condition that affects the nerves in the body, causing pain, numbness, and weakness, which can range from mild to severe. It can result from various factors and affect anyone, irrespective of age. If a person experiences the signs of the disorder, they should visit a healthcare professional for a diagnosis and learn about the available treatments. This article discusses the signs, causes, and management options for neuropathy.

Symptoms
Any condition that affects the functioning of nerves in the body can be labeled as neuropathy. It starts with damage to or dysfunction of the nerve cells, especially those in the peripheral nerves. The signs can vary from person to person, depending on the type and severity of the disease. However, most patients experience a few common discomforts, such as:

• A sensation of numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
• Cramping or pain in the hands or feet
• Difficulty moving the hands or feet due to weakness
• Loss of balance or coordination
• Increased sensitivity to touch or pressure
• Muscle twitching or spasms
• Muscle weakness
• Difficulty sleeping due to pain or discomfort
• Coordination issues during everyday activities like walking or writing

While the condition usually causes pain, numbness, and tingling in the hands and feet, other body parts may also be affected. A person may experience these symptoms gradually or suddenly and intensely. Furthermore, some experience symptoms that come and go, while others experience them constantly. If any of these discomforts appear, one should speak with a doctor to diagnose the issue and rule out the possibility of anything serious.

Causes
Various factors can contribute to the development of neuropathy or dysfunction of the nerves. A few common causes are:

• Diabetes
  High blood sugar can damage the nerves in the body, resulting in neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy is a common form of neuropathy that affects people with diabetes.
• Infections
  Certain infections, such as HIV, hepatitis C, and Lyme disease, can damage the nerves and lead to neuropathy.
• Trauma
  Injuries, such as those caused by accidents, can damage the nerves, increasing one’s risk.
• Autoimmune disorders
  Conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Guillain-Barre syndrome can cause neuropathy by attacking the body’s tissues.
• Nutritional deficiencies
  Nerve damage can occur if a person lacks vitamins B1, B6, B12, E, and niacin.

Diagnosis
Diagnosing neuropathy can be tricky, as there are many possible causes and symptoms. It is vital to see a healthcare provider if one suspects they have the condition. The expert can evaluate the symptoms and run the necessary tests. The following is an overview of the tests used to diagnose neuropathy:

• Quantitative sensory testing
  This test measures how well the nerves in the skin respond to different stimuli, such as temperature, vibration, and pressure.
• Electrodiagnostic testing
  It measures the electrical activity of the nerves and muscles and looks for damage. Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies are two procedures used for this purpose.
• Blood tests
  These tests can check for underlying conditions causing neuropathy, such as diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, and autoimmune disorders.

Sometimes, it may take multiple tests and evaluations to determine the underlying cause. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, individuals can start exploring treatment options and working toward managing their symptoms.

Treatment and management
The health expert may develop a treatment plan based on the condition’s cause and severity. The most common treatment options for neuropathy are:

• Physical therapy
  It can help improve flexibility, strength, balance, mobility, coordination, and strength. The patient may have to visit a physical therapist for regular sessions or perform the recommended exercises at home.
• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
  It is a technique that uses electrical impulses to block pain signals and relieve neuropathy symptoms.
• Alternative therapies
  Therapies like acupuncture, massage therapy, and chiropractic care can also help manage the symptoms.
• Surgery
  Surgery may be recommended in severe cases to relieve pressure on the nerves or repair damaged nerves.

Besides the above, doctors may recommend treatments to relieve pain and control seizures. Neuropathy can also stress a person emotionally, leading to depression, so the healthcare provider may recommend depression-fighting treatments. One must consult an expert to determine the right treatment and dosage.

If a person suffers from neuropathy, they should consult a professional at the earliest. In addition to treatments, lifestyle changes like following a healthy food plan and managing blood sugar levels can help improve the symptoms. Being patient is essential, as neuropathy can take time to treat and manage. But with the right treatment plan, the symptoms can be well-controlled.