Reviewed by medical experts • For informational purposes only
Causes of neuropathy, from diabetes and B12 deficiency to alcohol, infections and medicines.
Neuropathy has many causes. In about a third of people, a cause is found only after careful testing.
Diabetes
Long-term high blood sugar damages nerves and their blood supply. It is the most common cause, and the risk rises with the length of diabetes and poor control.
Nutrition and alcohol
Other medical conditions
Medicines and toxins
Some chemotherapy drugs, anti-TB medicines, certain antibiotics, heart medicines and heavy metals can damage nerves.
Injury and pressure
Accidents, repetitive strain, tight casts and long pressure on a nerve, as in carpal tunnel syndrome.
Inherited
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and other inherited forms.
Risk factors
Diabetes, alcohol use, age over 50, poor nutrition, family history and exposure to toxins.
Ayurvedic view
Aggravated Vata and tissue depletion are traditionally linked to nerve disorders. This is interpretive.
Remember
Finding the cause, for example by checking blood sugar and B12, decides the treatment.
When to get help
See a doctor if you have numbness, tingling, burning pain or weakness that lasts more than a few days, especially with diabetes. Avoid long self-medication and unknown herbal products, and do not use oils, herbs or home remedies on infants or young children without a paediatrician's advice. In an emergency call 112 or 102.
Written By
Dr. Daksh
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Varun Gupta
MD Pharmacology, MBBS
Last updated on
27 Sep 2022 • 06:23 PM (IST)
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