If you suffer from nerve pain, then you know it can be one of the most excruciating conditions a human can endure. You may also know how it can negatively impact your lifestyle. From missing family events to canceling business meetings, nerve pain can cause significant threats when it comes to living a full and functional life. So, if nerve pain (also known as neuropathy) is forcing you to compromise your quality of life, then read further for insights about neuropathy and potential treatments.
What Causes Nerve Pain?
According to WebMD, over 15 million Americans suffer some form of nerve pain, and about 8-10% of Los Angeles residents seek treatment for neuropathy each year. Most cases do not have a clear cause because there are many different reasons people experience nerve pain. Your best resort is to check with a physician for consultation and advice as to how to diagnose the source of nerve pain.
That said, the most common causes of nerve pain could stem from diabetes, toxins in the body, physical injury, or consequences from illness or disease. Other instances that trigger nerve pain may be due to certain types of imbalances in diet or misalignment of bones – in which case a homeopathic expert or chiropractor may be helpful in alleviating nerve pain.
Assessing Nerve Pain in Children
While nerve pain is more common in adults than in children, it does sometimes occur in kids and teens. Nerve pain in younger people is often caused by an accident or injury. In rare cases, pain can be prompted by autoimmune disorders or certain types of cancers. If your child is complaining of stabbing, sharp, shooting pains, or feels discomfort from even the slightest touch, it could be nerve damage. If this is the case, it’s a good idea to consult with one of the top San Diego pediatricians who specialize in neuropathy to get clear about what your child is going through.
Types of Nerves in the Body and Related Symptoms
There are three different types of nerves in the body and each manifests different symptoms within those who suffer from neuropathic pain. Here are the three types of nerves and common symptoms.
Motor Nerves: These nerves control your body movements by sending information from your brain to your muscles through the spinal cord. Symptoms of neuropathy in motor nerves include muscle weakness, twitching, and sometimes paralysis.
Autonomic Nerves: These are nerves that control involuntary or semi-voluntary functions in the body such as digestion, heartbeat, and blood pressure. Nerve damage to autonomic nerves may cause symptoms such as lightheadedness, constipation, irregularity in sweating, dry mouth, and bladder dysfunction.
Sensory Nerves: These nerves work to alert the brain about the pain experienced on the skin and in muscles. Sensory nerve disorders will manifest symptoms such as sensitivity, numbness, tingling, or burning sensations.
Ways to Treat Nerve Pain
Your approach to treating and coping with nerve damage or pain depends upon what kind of affliction with which you’re dealing. Treatment for neuropathy also depends on which type of nerve is afflicted. For example, treatment for nerve pain from a back injury will look much different than therapy for neurological disorders.
If nerve damage is caused by a nerve-related illness you will need to consult your physician, where he or she may prescribe certain medicines that can help with your situation. For example, your doctor may provide you with a gabapentin coupon, which is a medication that can substantially reduce nerve pain and discomfort.
Other methods to treat nerve pain include holistic therapy. These methods include meditation, massage, spa treatments, organic movement (such as yoga), or hypnosis. You might be surprised how these alternative therapies can make a big impact on nerve pain because the mind-body connection can be extremely powerful in alleviating pain. Whether you’re suffering from sciatic nerve pain or dealing with a nerve-related illness, there are plenty of treatments available to help ease your pain.
The Final Word About Living With Nerve Pain
While living with neuropathy can be challenging, it doesn’t have to completely ruin the quality of your life. Therapies and treatments are always improving, including innovative medications that help with nerve pain. Furthermore, neuropathic specialists in the San Diego and Los Angeles areas have worked wonders with nerve patients – enabling them to live full, happy lives. So if you are struggling with nerve damage or disorders, seek professional help and start gaining control of your life today.
