Phoenix Neuropathy
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Types of Neuropathy
It is not always possible to identify the cause of your neuropathy. When the cause is unclear, the neuropathy is called idiopathic. However we see too often doctors label neuropathy as idiopathic, when in fact with some work, the cause of a patient’s neuropathy can be identified. Why is this important? It is very tough to treat neuropathy without first eliminating the cause of the nerve damage. Nerves are tough to repair, so ongoing damage will almost always overpower treatment. If you see a doctor who is not trained in the care of neuropathy, that doctor likely believes that neuropathy is irreversible and he probably only has a few drugs at his disposal to treat the symptoms of neuropathy. This is a recipe for a poor outcome and failed treatment.
Sadly the common blood labs that are routinely order rarely reveal the cause of many types of neuropathy. When indicated, we obtain more sophisticated blood labs and often order hair analysis. The one thing I want you to remember is that treating neuropathy symptoms is an up-hill battle, if you can’t first identify the cause; then treat both the cause and the symptoms. Any other approach will likely produce disappointing results!
There are many reasons why a person develops peripheral neuropathy. Neuropathy commonly is seen in diabetes, thyroid conditions, vitamin deficiencies, chemical and heavy metal exposure. But it can also be seen in vitamin excess, in conjunction with diet, and even occurs as a result of prescription medication use. Some high blood pressure meds and most cholesterol lower medications have been associated with neuropathy.
There are neuropathies related to genetics, some that are auto-immune and other that result from inflammation.
The point is, neuropathy is a complex condition and it needs treatment that is individualized and tailored to meet the need a each patient. Click to find answers