The Many Ills of Peripheral Nerve Damage

This article is from the New York Times science section (see link below)and it gives a very good overview of neuropathy as a disease. There may be something here that you don't already know.

PERSONAL HEALTH; The Many Ills of Peripheral Nerve Damage
By JANE E. BRODY
Published: October 20, 2009

If you have ever slept on an arm and awakened with a ''dead'' hand, or sat too long with your legs crossed and had your foot fall asleep, you have some inkling of what many people with peripheral neuropathy experience day in and day out, often with no relief in sight.

And numbness and tingling are hardly the worst symptoms of this highly variable condition, which involves damage to one or more of the myriad nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. Effects may include disabling pain, stinging, swelling, burning, itching, muscle weakness, twitching, loss of sensation, hypersensitivity to touch, lack of coordination, difficulty breathing, digestive disorders, dizziness, impotence, incontinence, and even paralysis and death.

I realize now that I had a mild, reversible bout of peripheral neuropathy several decades ago when a misplaced shot of morphine damaged a sensory nerve in my thigh. It took three years for the nerve to recover, and for much of that time I could not tolerate anything brushing against my leg.

One of my sons, too, was afflicted when a nerve behind his knee was injured during a basketball game. He had no feeling or mobility in his foot for nine months, but after several years the nerve healed and he regained full use of his foot.

And a good friend was nearly paralyzed, also temporarily, following a flu shot, by a far more serious form of peripheral neuropathy -- an autoimmune affliction called Guillain-Barré syndrome, in which one's own antibodies attack the myelin sheath that protects nerves throughout the body.

There are hundreds of forms of peripheral neuropathy. A medical guide describing them, compiled by a team of neurologists at the behest of the Neuropathy Association, fills a booklet the size of a two-year wall calendar.

The association, which sponsors research and provides education and support for patients and families dealing with peripheral neuropathy, estimates that the disorder afflicts more than 20 million Americans at any given time. If the cause can be corrected, peripheral nerves can regenerate slowly and patients can recover, although not always completely.

But many people never recover. They must learn to live with the disorder, with the help of treatments and devices that can ease their discomfort and disability. With such a wide array of symptoms and causes, getting a correct diagnosis is often a challenge. Worse, frustrated patients are sometimes told, ''It's all in your head.''

Causes Behind an Ailment

There are three types of peripheral nerves: sensory nerves, which transmit sensations like pain, touch, heat and cold; motor nerves, which control the action of muscles throughout the body; and autonomic nerves, which regulate functions that are not under conscious control, like blood pressure, digestion and heart rate. Symptoms of neuropathy depend on what nerves are involved.

Someone with damaged sensory nerves might not feel heat, for example, and could be scalded by an overly hot bath. Neuropathy of the motor nerves can result in weakness, lack of coordination or paralysis; neuropathy of the autonomic nerves can lead to high blood pressure, irregular heart rate, diarrhea or constipation, impotence and incontinence.

The list of possible causes of neuropathy is far too long for this column. They include inherited conditions like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease; infections or inflammatory disorders like hepatitis, Lyme disease, AIDS, rheumatoid arthritis and lupus; organ diseases like diabetes, hypothyroidism and kidney disease; exposure to toxic substances like industrial solvents, heavy metals, sniffed glue and some cancer drugs; trauma to or pressure on a nerve from an injury, cast, crutches, abnormal body position, repetitive motion (as in carpal tunnel syndrome), tumor or abnormal bone growth; alcoholism; and deficiency of vitamin B12.

The most common cause, accounting for nearly a third of neuropathy cases, is diabetes, especially among those whose blood sugar levels are poorly controlled. Half of all people with diabetes eventually begin to lose sensation and develop pain and sometimes weakness in their feet and hands. In people with diabetes, even minor injuries to the feet, if not quickly and properly treated, can result in gangrene and amputations.

In nearly a third of cases, no cause is ever found, leaving patients with no other recourse than treatment of their symptoms.

Suspected cases are best referred to a neurologist, who should begin by taking a complete personal and family medical history and performing a physical and neurological examination, checking on reflexes, muscle strength and tone, sensations, balance and coordination.

A complete workup is likely to include blood tests, urinalysis, a nerve conduction study and electronic measurements of muscle activity. Imaging studies, like a CT scan or an M.R.I., may reveal a tumor, vertebral damage or abnormal bone growth. In some cases, a nerve or muscle biopsy may be done.

Relief and Restoration

If the underlying cause cannot be corrected, the goals of treatment are relief of symptoms and restoration of lost functions. Pain control is paramount. Effective relief may come from over-the-counter remedies or a lidocaine patch but sometimes requires prescribed opiates.

Many with neuropathic pain have benefited from drugs licensed for other uses, including antiseizure medications like gabapentin, topiramate (Topamax) and pregabalin (Lyrica) and antidepressants like the tricyclic amitriptyline and the selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor duloxetine (Cymbalta).Vitamin B12 deficiency can be treated with supplements and fortified cereals or by judicious consumption of meats, poultry, fish, eggs and dairy products.

And since alcohol and tobacco are particularly risky for people with neuropathy, or a health problem that predisposes them to it, they have every reason to quit smoking and to drink only in moderation.

Many patients are helped by physical therapy, occupational therapy and devices like braces, splints and wheelchairs. Railings on stairways and in the bathroom, elimination of tripping hazards like scatter rugs, and improved lighting (including night-lights) can reduce the risk of falls. For those insensitive to heat, a thermometer should be used to test water in a tub, shower or sink. Orthopedic shoes are invaluable to patients with lost sensitivity in their feet or impaired balance.

A variety of mechanical aids can make it easier to live with peripheral neuropathy, among them kitchen tools made by Oxo. Those with digestive problems might try eating small frequent meals and sleeping with their heads elevated.

http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9404E4D6123DF933A15753C1A96F9C8B63&pagewanted=all

MORE LEFT HANDED MEN ARE BORN DURING THE WINTER

Men born in November, December or January are more likely of being left-handed than during the rest of the year. While the genetic bases of handedness are still under debate, scientists at the Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, obtained indirect evidence of a hormonal mechanism promoting left-handedness among men.

Psychologist Ulrich Tran and his colleagues published their findings in the scientific journal Cortex.

Various manual tasks in everyday life require the use of the right hand or are optimized for right-handers. Around 90 percent of the general population is right-handed, only about 10 percent is left-handed. The study of Ulrich Tran, Stefan Stieger, and Martin Voracek comprised two large and independent samples of nearly 13,000 adults from Austria and Germany. As in modern genetic studies, where a discovery-and-replication-sample design is standard, the use of two samples allowed testing the replicability and robustness of findings within one-and-the-same study.

Overall, 7.5 percent of women and 8.8 percent of men were left-handed. "We were surprised to see that this imbalance was caused by more left-handed men being born specifically during November, December, and January. On a monthly average, 8.2 percent of left-handed men were born during the period February to October. During November to January, this number rose to 10.5 percent," according to Ulrich Tran, lead author of the study.

A hormonal cause during embryonic development

"Presumably, the relative darkness during the period November to January is not directly connected to this birth seasonality of handedness. We assume that the relative brightness during the period May to July, half a year before, is its distal cause," explains Ulrich Tran. A theory, brought forth in the 1980s by US neurologists Norman Geschwind and Albert Galaburda, posits that testosterone delays the maturation of the left brain hemisphere during embryonic development. The left brain hemisphere is dominant among right-handers, the right brain hemisphere is dominant among left-handers. Intrauterine testosterone levels are higher in the male fetus, because of its own testosterone secretion, than in the female fetus. However, the testosterone level of the mother and external factors may also affect intrauterine testosterone levels. Specifically, more daylight may increase testosterone levels, making a seasonality effect plausible.

Previous studies on the subject provided mixed and inconsistent evidence. There was no clear indication which season has an effect, and whether seasonality affects men, women or both sexes equally. According to the current findings, there is a small, but robust and replicable, effect of birth seasonality on handedness, affecting only men. These results are consistent with a hormonal basis of handedness, corroborating thus an old and controversial theory. However, the exact way of causation needs to be investigated in future studies.

Accepting The Pain Of Neuropathy And Moving Forward

Today's post from instituteforchronicpain.org (see link below) is a self-help article with a difference - it makes sense! Most self-help articles are well-meaning but stuffed with clichés and so-called new age philosophy and go over most people's heads. What we need is to know why we need to become proactive in our health problem and why that will do us good. This article sets out to explain how not fighting our pain (as we're expected to do) is the first step towards learning to live with it and improve it. Worth a read...even for cynics.

Finding Hope in Acceptance  
Author: Murray J. McAllister, PsyDPosted on August 26, 2013

At first thought, it might seem crazy to accept that your pain is chronic. When I bring it up with patients, many of them tell me, not without some irritation in their voice, “I’ll never give up hope of finding someone who can fix me!” Indeed, it’s common to think that accepting the chronicity of your pain is the same thing as giving up hope that you’ll ever get better. So, why in the world would you ever want to accept that your pain is chronic?

Contrary to what you might think, accepting that your pain is chronic is the first step in actually getting better. It opens up a whole new way of getting better, a way that takes into account the realities of your pain condition. As such, it’s a new and more realistic way to have hope.

To understand the point more clearly, let’s briefly review two different models of healthcare – two different ways that we get better when having an illness or injury. These two models are what we might call the ‘acute medical model’ and the ‘rehabilitation model.’ The latter is sometimes called the ‘self-management model.’ (For a more thorough review of these models of healthcare, click on this post here.) 


Acute Medical Model

The acute medical model of healthcare is what most of us think of when we go to see a healthcare provider. When sick or injured, we go to a provider who determines what’s wrong and provides a treatment that cures us. The healthcare provider is an expert who usually knows more about the condition and the treatments than we do. The treatments themselves are usually medications or procedures that act on us. We don’t typically get better by doing things ourselves. Rather, it’s the treatments that get us better and we rely on healthcare providers to provide us with those treatments. Lastly, getting better in the acute medical model is usually thought of as getting cured. We return to our usual state of health — how we were before we became ill or injured.

Hope of getting better within the acute medical model lies in finding the right healthcare provider who knows what’s wrong and knows how to cure you. In this model, hope lies external to you. You find it in the expertise and treatments of a healthcare provider.

Now there’s nothing wrong with the acute medical model. It’s all well and good when we have a condition for which there actually is a cure. Indeed, it’s likely the best thing to do. But, what do you do when you have a condition for which there is no cure?

Rehabilitation Model

The answer to the question, of course, isn’t to give up hope and do nothing. There’s actually a different way of getting better. It’s the rehabilitation model of care. It requires, however, redefining how to get better and even redefining what it means to get better.

In the rehabilitation model of care, the emphasis is on what you, the patient, do to get better — not on what the healthcare provider does to get you better. Specifically, the focus is on the patient acquiring the abilities to make healthy changes, which, when done over time, have a positive impact on the chronic health condition that you have. These changes fall into two categories: a) changes in health behaviors, or what’s often referred to as lifestyle change, and b) changes in coping, or what’s often referred to as stress management. The goal of learning and engaging in these health behaviors over time is two-fold: you reduce the symptoms of the condition and you reduce the impact that the chronic health condition has on you. In other words, you get so good at self-managing the condition that it no longer is as problematic as it once was. As a consequence, you can move on with the rest of your life, engaging in the meaningful activities of life – such as work, family activities, social and recreational activities.

Notice that the rehabilitation model doesn’t promise a cure. The reason is that the conditions for which the rehabilitation model is best suited are those conditions that are chronic. They have no cure. Nonetheless, the patient does get better in very real and meaningful ways.

Notice too that hope gets redefined. It allows for having hope even when there is no cure. Finding a cure is not the only way to get better. Therefore there’s still hope. It’s just a different way to have hope, a hope that realistically takes into account the chronic nature of the condition you have, but nonetheless points to how to how you still can get better.

The conditions for which the rehabilitation model is best suited are chronic conditions, where there is no cure, such as chronic pain syndromes, diabetes, heart disease, and spinal cord injuries, among others.

Finding Hope in Acceptance

Acceptance that your pain is chronic is the first step in pursuing the rehabilitation model of care. Rehabilitation is hard work. It also takes time. You don’t do it if you think that a cure is just around the corner. Once you recognize, though, that your chronic pain really is chronic, it becomes your life-saver – or life-retriever. You start to get your life back. You learn how to self-manage your pain and you practice it to the point that you move on with the rest of your life. Your life doesn’t have to be about chronic pain.

Patients can keep their life on hold when they insist on finding hope only in a cure. They seek out appointment after appointment, attempting to find the right specialist who will know what to do to make their pain go away. Oftentimes, they seek out surgeries or interventional procedures that seem as if they might be a cure, but aren’t. Each time they seek out a new specialist, there is hope. Each time, though, it gets dashed because there really is no cure for chronic pain. Chronic pain really is chronic.

The point, here, is not a criticism of such patients. What we are describing makes sense if you think of healthcare as only the acute medical model. If we think of healthcare providers as specialists who fix us when sick or injured, it makes all the sense in the world to look for the right one who can do the job – even if you have to try one after another. It’s a hard lesson to learn when realizing that it’s only sometimes that healthcare providers act like a mechanic. A lot of the time, we have no fixes. So, again, I’m not judging when I describe patients who fail to accept that their pain is chronic. We can all understand how it happens. They are trying to find hope in a cure.

What if, though, at the end of the day, the hope is really a false hope? It can become a vicious cycle that leads to depression and oftentimes more pain. Hope is found with each new procedure, but each procedure fails to cure the pain and so hope is dashed. If hope is defined by finding a cure, and if there really is no cure, then you are left helpless – and hopeless.

Maybe it’s best to find a new way to have hope.

You find it by accepting that chronic pain really is chronic. You accept that you are not going to get better by finding a cure. Rather, you accept that you are going to get better by learning to self-manage it. You learn how to make healthy changes in your life that, when done over time, reduce your symptoms and reduce the impact that chronic pain has on your life. You get so good at managing chronic pain that it is no longer the preoccupying problem that it once was. Your life consists of the stuff of life and chronic pain comes along for the ride, but remains in the side car.

It’s okay if you don’t know how to do it yet. Most patients have to learn how to do it. Oftentimes, I remind patients that you’re not born with the knowledge of how to self-manage pain successfully. People have to learn it. And it’s okay if you don’t know how and have to learn it.

What matters, though, is that you learn how. It’s possible to learn how to self-manage pain and do it successfully. People learn how to do it everyday in chronic pain rehabilitation programs. And you can too.

You just have to first accept that your chronic pain is really chronic.

(For more information, please see: “What is chronic pain?” or “Why the healthcare system refuses to accept the chronicity of chronic pain.”)

http://www.instituteforchronicpain.org/blog/finding-hope-acceptance/

Mind The boss Mental disorders Suicidal mania sexual dysfunction

Mind - The boss

Face is the mirror of the inner heart/feelings. But, now, in this egoistic world, people try to use their face as a mask for covering their tension/depression/anxiety. As in a fashion parade, they keep smiling artificially in spite of their stress levels. But the façade cannot be maintained when their stress levels go out of control. Further, one can sink with psychological complaints at any time with respect to changes in health status, behaviour, environment, happenings and biochemistry of the brain. No one can forecast mind or mood. A simple conflict may bring problems like irritability, impatience, restlessness, brooding, anxiety, depression, grief, fear, delusion, etc. (with or without crying). Some suffer silently and some show rage. In the initial stages, sleep can calm one’s mind, but no one can predict when it would get fogged or flare up again. To rule out these problems, one should take care and root out all predisposing and precipitating factors. Health means complete harmony of body and mind. There is an intimate relation between mind and body. Physical changes or symptoms can change one’s mind and, likewise, mood changes or mental illness can affect physical health. For example: Moods may vary and cause depression during periods or menopause (because of hormonal imbalance) in women Physical illness i.e. tumours, cancer, AIDS or any other major life-threatening disease can cause depression Anaemic patients will have loss of interest, concentration and depression Hypertensive patients can be short-tempered and get angry soon or often Cosmetic illnesses like leucoderma or psoriasis or even recurrent pimples can cause low self-esteem Mental tension can cause irritable bowel syndrome, mouth ulcers, peptic ulcers, etc. Depression or tension or anxiety in adults can also cause loss of sexual derives including impotency, premature ejaculation, lack of orgasm, etc. These examples all point that good physique can keep you in good mood and vice versa. Finally, a man who has hope can live better than one who doesn’t. Until the discovery of antibiotics, the medicine world presumed that mind and body were one and the same. But now it has separated soul (mind) from the body. When we separate disease as physical illness and mental illness and treat them accordingly, it means that we are concentrating on disease and not on the man. Here one should be aware that when 10 persons drink the same contaminated water and if only 2-3 suffer, how one can blame bacteria or virus alone as the causative factor. There must be something beyond that i.e., our immunity, susceptibility, etc. Advanced medical science ignored research in this aspect and got deviated deep into the study of diseases in man instead of studying man in the midst of diseases. Like other diseases, mind disorders are also common, i.e. one in three might have suffered from one or other complaint in their lifetime. Some persons may manage the condition by themselves while some others may feel disabled and need support. Some disorders are transient, some disorders can persist and be treated and while some others may last a lifetime and not respond to any treatment. Among all, anxiety disorders are more prevalent in this tension-filled world. At least 10-20 per cent people suffer from it. Among them, most people ignore them and do not take any treatment. Further, if circumstances are not favourable continuously, with more tension and fear, the sufferer may sink into depression or panic disorders. In general, any emotional stress can cause mental fatigue, tensed feelings and sleeplessness which, in turn, can cause physical fatigue and tiredness or exhaustion. Further emotional upsets with loss, grief after missing dear ones, getting cheated, etc., make them very sad and dejected. In course of time, they may develop fear, anxiety, tension, lack of confidence, etc. Slowly, they will lose hope and feel as if they have been singled out. Under these circumstances, unless they receive support, they may react differently to environments: for example, it could lead to delirium, reacting violently to kill oneself or others, etc. With mind disorders, every person reacts differently to situations. They need to be advised/counselled/treated accordingly. For example, some may raise a great hue and cry for even a small thorn prick or injections but some would go for injections (multivitamin injections) voluntarily and often keep themselves energetic. Here, they tolerate pain voluntarily. This represents the mental state of the person. Further, someone would remain scared always that he might have a heart attack even after doing all sorts of investigations and it being diagnosed as simple gastritis. Likewise, some others would neglect heart attack as simple gastritis. Both are not normal and they both will face complications because of their mindset. Here, the first one needs to rely on doctor’s words to lead a happy life and the second one needs to approach a doctor to have proper care and medication. For any illness of the mind, accepting change is the easiest way than medicines to lead a comfortable life. Yesterday is history Tomorrow is a mystery Today is a gift – Live it happily without any tension  Mental disorders Mental disorders can arise from various sources and with a combination of various factors. For all mental illnesses, stress, tension, fear and anxiety usually come as foundation stones. It can also arise from birth with or without changes in brain tissues (due to development delays or for unknown reasons). Mental disorders can be identified with two types of reactions. A normal reaction to abnormal events An abnormal reaction to normal events In course of time, both these reactions can cause more and more difference in mind to react differently, i.e., some may getdepressed with mental fatigue and some other may react violently with anger – reacting differently to first reaction can fade or go off slowly even without treatment (according to nature, adaptability of person and future environment/situations) whereas for the second one, it will usually flare up to an explosive situation unless properly cared for, consoled, counselled or treated. One’s personality is influenced by thoughts, characters, behaviours, nature of bringing up and reactions to environment across situations and time. Further, feelings also differ from person to person according to their current status/circumstances. Normally, one can be observed as abnormal when many others’ decision conflicts with his view. That’s why many researchers/inventors are often shunned as mad during their initial days. Unless otherwise they attest their findings with results, they might not get recognition for their high intellect and will remain as ‘mad’ in others’ point of view. So, abnormal (?) mind is often identified because of reacting differently from others, and conflicting with the majority. Psychiatric medicine has recently gained much importance in this tension-filled world. Labelling someone as mad just because he goes to a psychiatrist is old-fashioned. Taking counselling is very common now as everyone accepts it as a need for a consoling word or a shoulder to lean upon for having support during their period of suffering. Counselling should be done by a knowledgeable person or otherwise the sufferer may feel worse after the counselling. Mind disorders can be seen in all age groups, irrespective of sex. Following are a few common mind disorders which crop up in children. Mind disorders in children Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder - a developmental disorder characterised by distraction, inability to concentrate due to hyperactivity and sudden impulsive behaviour. Autism – is actually a syndrome where there are collection of disorders with lack of understanding, communication, social interaction and repetitive behaviour. Learning disorders - disorders related to listening, reading, writing, speaking and calculating ability. Mental retardation - a developmental disability with lack of daily living skills because of slow down or low intellectual functioning. Phobias – are intensified abnormal persistent fear of something which is unreasonable. For example, getting terrified of darkness, height or tall buildings, lifts, escalators, cockroaches, etc. Homesickness - is the distress caused by a feeling of longing with an actual or anticipated separation from home or parents. In course of time, it will be accompanied by anxiety and depression. It is commonly anticipated in children studying in hostel or youth studying or working in unfamiliar environments. Nightmare – getting distress with frightening dreams (with frequent awakenings) Homeopathic approach – In dealing with children, children-friendly Homeopathy is matchless in efficiency. It treats everyone as a different individual and treats them according to their symptom presentations, constitutional make-up (mental and physical) and feelings. Homeopathy can support mind disorders in children to build attention, concentration, confidence, etc., by supporting the nerves and brain. Homeopathy stands tall with its classical individualisation and treatment. Homeopathy can help the brain in storing / sharing / interpreting things in memory. Homeopathy can act as an adjuvant and offer better stability for mind with emotional support. For any mind disorders, treatment should be availed of as early as possible or otherwise improvement will be very poor. Homeopathic remedies commonly used for Phobias - Aspen, Arg Nit, Ars alb, Gels, Mimulus, Nux vom, Stramoninum, etc. Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder / Autism / Learning disorders and Mental retardation – Baryta carb, Calc carb, Chestnut bud, Clematis, Pineal, Pituitary, Thyroidinum, etc. Dullness & depression – Baryta carb, Calc carb, Gentian, Horn beam, etc. Hopelessness & lack of self-confidence – Ambra grisea, Lachesis, Larch, Nat mur, Gorse, etc. Homesickness – Acid phos, Capsicum, Ignatia, Gels, Nux vom, Puls, etc. These medicines should be taken under the advice and diagnosis of a Qualified Homeopath. Mind disorders in adolescents Mental disorders-2 Life may be a rollercoaster ride on many occasions, i.e., sometimes one may be very happy and sometimes feel confused and sad. Even though mental disorders can arise in all age groups, mostly it starts during adolescence because of various changes in lifestyle and a lot of expectations. If they cannot cope with circumstances and changes, they will suffer from anxiety disorders or depression. The most common cause for mind disorders are losing an affectionate person, lack of love, love failure or sexual abuse. Family problems, financial problems and parent’s interference in ambition/choosing a career or profession/love matter may add pressure to the mind of adolescents to cause serious emotional problems. Common mind disorders arising in adolescent age group are Anxiety Disorders – Anxiety is an unpleasant emotional feeling triggered by anticipation or fear for future events with memories of past events. Stress Disorders – are also anxiety-related disorders which develop after an unusual event or a psychological trauma – There are two types - Acute stress response and Chronic or severe - Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Anorexia Nervosa – losing appetite or interest for foods with anxiety disorder in adolescent females. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) - is also an anxiety disorder where sufferer has uncontrollable, unreasonable, persistent and disturbing thoughts which compel him to do a particular activity repeatedly – for example, repeated hand washing with fear of germs remaining in the hands, aversion to sex fearing sexually-transmitted diseases, opening and closing the door repeatedly to check he has locked it perfectly, etc. Depression (two categories - Unipolar and Bipolar) o   Unipolar Depression - is a kind of mental illness where the patient is sad with lack of interest in things that were once pleasurable. o   Bipolar Depression – depression characterised by extreme fluctuations in moods, i.e., sometimes very dull and sleepy and at other times very irritable and violent with sleeplessness. Suicidal Mania – persistent and intentional thinking of killing self. Schizoid Personality Disorder – refers to constant or persistent withdrawal from social relationships/functions/joyous occasions with lack of self-confidence and interest. Delusion – condition of recurrent/persistent thought/belief which is really false, for example, thinks that everyone is talking about him in a wrong way. Schizophrenia – a chronic complex mental disorder where sufferer experiences disorganised speech and behaviour with delusions and hallucinations. Hypochondriasis – a kind of health anxiety disorder where there is excessive fear of having a serious medical illness (in spite of no medical evidence to support the presence of serious health problem or even after testing all parameters). Panic Disorders – one may become panicky if they experience unreasonable intensified fear along with anxiety. They will have sudden accelerated or irregular heartbeats, shortness of breath, breathlessness, dizziness, sweating, etc., and lose control of himself. Agoraphobia – fear of remaining in unavoidable situations (from which escape might be very difficult) – for example, if he happens to go out, fears that a tall building may fall on him; an accident may occur, etc. Quite simply, they may fear to go outside or be in open, public places. Aversion to Marriage or Sex – with fear of sexual performance/pain/failure. Signs and symptoms   Sadness / hopelessness / worthless feeling Loss of concentration / interest / low self-esteem Irritability / anger / restlessness with loss of sleep Extreme sensitivity – will take silly things very seriously Fatigue / vague pains Suicidal thoughts and withdrawal from friends and family Nightmare – getting distress with frightening dreams (with frequent awakenings from sleep) Going for addictions with alcohol / smoking / drugs Fear about loyalty / faithfulness To cope with the situation Divert your mind – Keep yourself always busy or be with your friends or relatives Avoid sitting alone and thinking too much – i.e., be engaged always - if necessary, change of place may also be useful. Never, ever give up hope Do some charity work in person – You will realise your importance in this world Homeopathic approach - Counselling and medical treatment can be helpful to recover from mind disorders. Every person reacts differently to situations. They need to be advised / counselled accordingly or otherwise it can flare up the complaint. Homeopathy treats everyone as a different individual and treats them according to their symptom presentations, constitutional make-up (mental and physical) and feelings. Homeopathy stands high here with its classic individualisation and treatment with out any side-effects. Homeopathy is very safe and free from all sorts of harmful side-effects since it is given in very minute doses. Finally, one should be aware that “A bend in the road is not the end of the road... unless you fail to make the turn.” Further, there is no agony like bearing an untold story inside of you.So, share it with a friend or parent or well-wisher or doctor to get advised. Remember, pain may be inevitable sometimes but suffering continuously is only optional. Though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new end. So be hopeful - It’s your world – enjoy and live it. Suicidal mania Suicide is the intentional killing of oneself. Suicidal mania is one of the most severe medical conditions where one has the elevated mood to kill oneself with depression or delusions. One who wants to commit suicide usually thinks he/she is no way worthy and with depression always looks at the darker side of life. They weep, pray, think they are not fit for this world and plunge into the deep gloom and despair. To combat the world of thorns, they commonly choose suicide by going for an overdose of sedative/poisonous medicines/substances or pesticides. Sometimes, they may also choose violent options too, like falling from great heights, cutting or injuring themselves with knives or guns or resorting to hanging themselves. As said by the World Health Organization, more than one million people commit suicide every year. It is also one of the leading causes of death among teenagers and adults under the age of 35. Suicidal thoughts may occur for a number of reasons - most common causes or concerns are with development of anxiety related to money, job, love and health. For example, depression, grief after losing a loved one or affectionate person, sleep problems, emotional stress, anxiety, financial loss or difficulties, insecurity, shame, guilt, desperation, physical pain or any life-threatening illness, unable to fulfil the desire of one’s self or others’, rewind or repeat feeling of past worst incidents or other undesirable situations, etc. Sufferers are mostly deprived, widow, divorcee, lonely persons, etc. Symptoms - For suicidal maniac persons, life seems a burden so they desire death. Every opportunity will be sought for self-destruction. Further, they hate life/love with hopelessness dislike to speak or to be spoken to brood constantly over imaginary troubles worry over trifles with impulsive thoughts of suicide are restless of mind and body with sleeplessness lack concentration, are confused and forgetful are irritable and impulsive tired and become easily fatigued with body pain suffer from tremors have dry mouth and are thirsty report empty feeling in stomach/feel discomfort in upper abdomen have aversion to foods or drink suffer chest pain and breathlessness have palpitations with sweating and sinking feeling develop depression/fear/mania after prolonged suffering have impotency or loss of sexual passion Prevention and self care Be Open-minded and share your feelings and expectations with well-wishers or those who are concerned about you Be busy with work or job to forget all sorts of thoughts Accept Fate and try to overcome it - Life begins with acceptance. Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising up every time we fall. Feasibility and limit your expectations Support of well-wishers to overcome sinking feeling Avoid Loneliness and thoughts Racing against time and fear with negative thoughts Circumstances which favour anxiety or depression To cope up the situation If necessary, change of place may be useful Never, ever give up your hope since “A man who has hope can live better than one who doesn’t have it” Do some charity work in person – You can realise your importance in this world Finally, one should realise that without trying to solve the problems but seeking an end can give a start of sufferings to others (near and dears). So, one needs to think rationally and needs to go for psychological counselling if he happens to develop such a feeling. He should also be aware that “A bend in the road is not the end of the road, unless you fail to make the turn.” Further, there is no agony like bearing an untold story inside of you. So, share it with friend or parent or well-wisher or doctor to get advised. Remember, pain may be inevitable sometimes but suffering continuously is only optional. Though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new and pleasant end. So, be hopeful -It’s your world – enjoy and live it.  Counselling - is the first line of treatment in all psychological disorders – suicidal tendency is no way an exception. Medicines can control thoughts but anyhow psychological counselling is a must. Counselling differs in time and approach with each patient, according to their presentation and intensity of the complaint. Counselling also needs to play the right tune at the right time to comfort the sufferer or otherwise, negative impact will often follow. Counselling should be in such a way that it builds self-confidence, self-esteem and self-support. On probing the mind, grabbing the secrecy, soothing the anxiety, quieting the mind, relaxing the tension, any doctor can cure anxiety disorders even without medicines. The doctor can study all facets of the sufferer and help him/her by offering insights to root out the suffering. Here, patient cooperation is more essential than any other. Further, it is the onus of bystanders to care for the sufferer since they are with the continuous feeling of intolerable existence and great temptation for suicide. General treatment – Apt and timely treatment usually helps in safeguarding one’s life and to live peacefully. Since suicidal tendency is a very serious disorder, immediate attention and management with counselling and drugs is very essential (sometimes hospitalisation may be required). In general, unless situation or circumstances favour, psychiatric drugs may need to be continued for one’s lifetime where one may need to live with its side-effects too. But their usage in controlling one’s reaction with suppressing thoughts and saving life from suicide is remarkable. Homeopathic approach – Homeopathy revolutionised the medicine world by considering mental symptoms as the most important. Homeopathy treats the patient as a whole (on mental and physical plane altogether) with symptoms’ similarity. It always gives more importance to patient’s subjective feelings and sensations and for their betterment. Altogether, Homoeopathy can provide cure/better relief from all sorts of mental changes without any side-effects. Further, with Homeopathy treatment, one can regain and retain normalcy even after quitting treatment. For getting complete cure, one should avail of treatment at the earliest or during the start-up of the complaint itself. The Homeopath usually probes the patient’s mind to find the mental make-up and constitution/temperament of a person to probe the core of the case. One must express one’s feelings precisely and clearly to the doctor without hiding. Homeopathy can treat the sufferer exemplarily to face boldly the unexpected and to have and enjoy all the fantasies of the world. Homeopathic medicines commonly used in suicidal tendency are Aconite, Arg nit, Arnica, Ars alb, Aurum met, Bryonia, Caladium, Cal carb, Cannabis indica, Capsicum, Clematis, Gelsemium, Helleborus, Hyoscyamus, Ignatia, Iodium, Kali brom, Lachesis, Lycopodium, Medorrhinum, Merc sol, Naja, Nat mur, Nux vom, Opium, Pulsatilla, Phosphorus, Sepia, Silicea, Staphysagria, Stramonium, Tarantula, etc. Bach’s flower remedies like Aspen, Mimulus, Red chestnut, Vervain, etc., can also provide amazing results for persistent thoughts. These medicines can facilitate one’s mind in a better way to cope with the situation. It is better to have these medicines under the advice and diagnosis of a Qualified Homeopath. Mental disorders and sexual dysfunction Mental disorders can cause sexual dysfunction because of deviated mind or lack of interest/concentration. Further, lack of satisfaction and interest in sex will make anyone stay away from it in future. Even though sexual dysfunction can occur in any one at any time, it is more common in depressed men or women. It may be because of emotional stress/disease or the side-effects of antidepressants. In males, Mind disorders can cause Erectile dysfunction (ED) – inability to attain or maintain an erection sufficient to permit satisfactory sexual intercourse and ends up without any satisfaction to himself or his partner Premature ejaculation (PME) - discharge of semen with minimal sexual stimulation before or during or shortly after penetration Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) - persistent or recurrent extreme aversion to, or absence of, or avoidance of all genital sexual contact with sexual partner Hyper sexuality in males - Satyriasis – meant for abnormal, extreme and frequent sexual activities with constant craving or urge. It can be because of mind disorders or because of drugs/alcohol or sexual addiction In females, Female sexual dysfunctions (pain during sexual activity, difficulty in getting penetration, lack of interest in sex or inability to attain orgasm, etc.) are often caused by fear of pain and bleeding (during first day of sex) or hormonal imbalance (especially due to low level of oestrogen) and during menopausal with or without dryness of vagina. Sexual aversion disorder or sexual arousal disorder - refers to the lack of sexual passion or desire with persistent or recurrent inability of a woman to achieve or maintain an adequate lubrication in vagina (swelling response) during sexual activity. Vaginismus - occurs when the muscles around the outer third of the vagina contract involuntarily when vaginal penetration is attempted during sexual intercourse. Lack of libido (mood and interest) with no orgasm – This is often seen in depressed women and with the prescription of scheduled sex during ovulation in the treatment plan for infertility. Hyper sexuality in females - Nymphomania - refers to abnormal, extreme and frequent craving for sexual activities with sexual addictions. To suppress the feelings, they may often go for cold baths at erratic times. Homeopathic approach – For sexual dysfunction in psychological patients, treatment should not be just aimed at sexual passion, but should also be concentrated on their mental illnesses with counselling. Homeopathy is a wonder of scientific application and not a magical prescription. Homeopathy treats the person’s mind and physique on the whole to provide dramatic relief. Individualisation is the specialty of Homeopathy. There are many wonderful drugs for mental illness and sexual weakness or dysfunctions. Homeopathy can quarantine the progress of the disease and can cure the situation in due course without any recurrences. As the main message of this article, don't be depressed or fearful or feel hopeless. A hopeful heart always keeps you happy. Be optimistic. Be cheerful. To recapture your sexual passion, don't go for booster drugs, since they last only for a few minutes and create dependency. Homeopathy never acts as a booster. But it works to make a person normal or revive the active normal state. It will blend perfection, pleasure and happiness in one’s life. Homeopathic medicines commonly used in cases of sexual dysfunctions are Acid phos, Acid picric, Agnus castus, Arg nit, Avena sativa, Caladium, Cantharis, Conium, Damiana, Gelsemium, Kali brom, Lycopodium, Moschus, Nat mur, Nuphar luteum, Nux vom, Onosmodium, Pulsatilla, Sabal serrulata, Selenium, Sepia, Staphysagria, Titanium, Yohimbinum, Zinc met, etc. These medicines should be taken under the advice and diagnosis of a qualified Homoeopath. When the Homeopath approaches the case by analysing the cause, and psychological counselling, Homeopathy can reassure complete recovery. for new hope Dr. S. Chidambaranathan, BHMS, MD (Homeo) Laxmi Homeo Clinic 24 E. New Mahalipatti Road Madurai, TN 625 001 India Tel:  +91-452-233-8833 | +91-984-319-1011 (Mob) Fax: +91-452-233-0196 E-mail:  drcheena@yahoo.com www.drcheena.com / www.drcheena.in (Disclaimer - The contents of this column are for informational purpose only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional healthcare advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of healthcare professional for any health problem or medical condition.)

Shingles Also Attacks The Nervous System

Today's post from health.clevelandclinic.org/ (see link below) talks about shingles, a form of neuropathy that is often not thought of as being nerve damage but if you've ever had an attack, you'll be pretty sure it is. It's cause by the virus varicella-zoster, which is a herpes virus and just like herpes, it will lie low for some time and then strike when your system is also at a low ebb. Most people who suffer from shingles have also had chicken pox at some time in their lives and that's one way the virus enters the body because chicken pox is also caused by varicella-zoster. For people already living with other conditions, including neuropathy, shingles can be doubly painful (and doubly depressing). Fortunately, there is a vaccine available but it won't remove shingles, it will just lessen the impact. For the full story see below.

Ever Have Chickenpox? Then You’re at Risk for Shingles. How to minimize your chances of getting this painful rash
December 14, 2016 / By Family Health Team

When you were a kid, did you scratch your way through a case of chickenpox? If so, you met the virus that causes shingles.

Called varicella-zoster, it didn’t leave after your chickenpox faded. Instead, the virus laid low in your nervous system.

For one in three adults, the zoster virus re-emerges decades later as shingles. Each year, about 1 million Americans develop the painful rash. Those over 60 are especially at risk.

“Anyone who has had chickenpox is at risk of developing shingles at some time in their life,” says Daniel Allan, MD.

How shingles develops

Sometimes a headache, nausea, fever or chills will herald shingles’ arrival. And the area the rash will be targeting can become painful, numb or tingly a few days in advance. Once the rash hits, blisters form, along with pain described as stabbing, shooting or burning.

“The initial rash is often confused with insect bites,” says Dr. Allan. ““The pain can show up before the rash, continue through the rash and most importantly, it can continue after the rash has healed up.”

The shingles rash typically appears as a band stretching across one side of the trunk. It can develop elsewhere, however. If the rash goes near the eye, immediate care is needed to avoid eye damage.

The shingles rash often lasts for a couple of weeks

Antiviral medication will shorten the duration and pain of shingles if given right away. “Generally, we recommend that patients see their doctor within two to three days of onset. That’s when the prescribed medications are more effective,” says Dr. Allan.

It’s important to keep an oozing rash covered. You can’t spread shingles itself. But you can spread the virus, which can cause chickenpox in those who haven’t had chickenpox or haven’t been vaccinated against it.

“Anyone with active shingles should also avoid pregnant women because of risk to the fetus,” he adds. “Once all the lesions have scabbed or crusted over, you’re no longer contagious.” 

Shingles can strike at any time

Unlike chickenpox, shingles can recur — though not always in the same spot.

Shingles can and does develop in younger people. But it is riskier for older people, who are more likely to develop chronic pain from nerve damage (post-herpetic neuralgia), and for those with autoimmune diseases, because getting shingles increases their risk of stroke.

“There is a shingles vaccine recommended for adults 60 and older,” says Dr. Allan. “This vaccine is extremely useful for reducing your chances of getting shingles, although it won’t eliminate them. Even more importantly, it drastically cuts the risk of developing post-herpetic neuralgia.”

Many patients with post-herpetic neuralgia require treatment with pain relievers, nerve blocks or implanted nerve stimulators to relieve pain.

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/2016/12/ever-have-chickenpox-then-youre-at-risk-for-shingles/

New Drugs To Be Targeted At Pain Receptors Deep In The Nerve Cell

Today's post from sciencedaily.com (see link below) may at first sight seem a little difficult to understand but basically, when the body experiences pain, there are pain receptors on the surface of nerve cells that identify it and transmit the information further and let you feel that pain. If the pain is extreme, sometimes these pain receptors retreat to the nucleus of the cell, as if it's 'safer' there. Pain relieving drugs are designed to block the pain signals in the receptors at the surface of the cell but if the receptors have migrated to the nucleus then the drugs don't have any effect. This knowledge enables researchers to design pain-relieving drugs that can penetrate the nerve cell to the nucleus and thus block the signals from reaching the receptors. They can then 'safely' return to the surface of the cell. At least that's the theory and although it may seem like double-dutch to most of us, sometimes it's interesting to know in which direction the scientists are going.
 

Location may be key to effectively controlling pain
Date:February 3, 2016 Source:McGill University
 
In real estate, location is key. It now seems the same concept holds true when it comes to stopping pain. New research published in Nature Communications indicates that the location of receptors that transmit pain signals is important in how big or small a pain signal will be -- and therefore how effectively drugs can block those signals.

Blocking pain receptors in the nucleus of spinal nerve cells could more effectively control pain than interfering with the same type of receptors located on cell surfaces. The scientists also found that when spinal nerve cells encounter a painful stimulus, some of the receptors will migrate from the cell surface into the nucleus.

A team of researchers led by McGill University's Director of Anesthesia Research Terence Coderre and Karen O'Malley at Washington University in St. Louis, found that rats treated with investigational drugs to block the activity of the receptors in the nucleus soon began behaving in ways that led them to believe the animals had gotten relief from neuropathic pain. According to Prof. Coderre, "drugs that penetrate the spinal nerve cells to block receptors at the nucleus were effective at relieving pain, while those that don't penetrate the nerve cells were not. Rats with nerve injuries had less spontaneous pain and less pain hypersensitivity after blocking receptors at the nucleus, while the pain sensitivity of normal rats was not affected."

Location is key
Scientists have been studying glutamate receptors in the pain pathway for decades. What's new, Coderre explained, is that these most recent experiments -- in cell cultures and rats -- demonstrate that the location of the receptor in the cell has a major effect on the cell's ability to transmit pain signals.

The researchers focused mainly on nerve cells in the spinal cord, an important area for transmitting pain signals coming from all parts of the body.

"We'll now focus our research at determining what events cause the glutamate receptors to migrate to the nucleus, and how to produce drugs that more specifically block glutamate receptors only at the nucleus," added Coderre.

Story Source:

The above post is reprinted from materials provided by McGill University. The original item was written by Cynthia Lee. Note: Materials may be edited for content and length.

Journal Reference:
Kathleen Vincent, Virginia M. Cornea, Yuh-Jiin I. Jong, André Laferrière, Naresh Kumar, Aiste Mickeviciute, Jollee S. T. Fung, Pouya Bandegi, Alfredo Ribeiro-da-Silva, Karen L. O’Malley, Terence J. Coderre. Intracellular mGluR5 plays a critical role in neuropathic pain. Nature Communications, 2016; 7: 10604 DOI: 10.1038/NCOMMS10604

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/02/160203111018.htm

Questions for the Doctor

If you have just been told you've got neuropathy, it can be a confusing time and your first, second or third, visits to the neurologist or HIV consultant regarding the disease, can be over before you know it and before you can absorb the details of what's happening to you. Instead of sitting in the chair and waiting for the doctor to feed you information, why not be a little more pro-active and have some questions pre-prepared before you go in?
This article from Healthcommunities.com(see link below) provides you with a list of pertinent questions you can print out and take with you to your appointments. You don't have to ask them all but select those which you really want to know the answers to. There probably won't be time to answer them all either but at least you'll know what to ask next time. Don't think you're putting the doctor on the spot; he or she, will be happy to have a structured set of questions to answer and you won't feel panicked into rushing from one subject to the other, or forgetting what you really wanted to say.

Patient Information about Neuropathy

Neuropathy, also called peripheral neuropathy, is a condition caused by nerve damage. Neuropathy can affect movement, sensation (e.g., temperature, pain, touch), and functions, such as breathing and digestion.

Peripheral neuropathy can occur with no known cause, but the disorder often is associated with diabetes (called diabetic neuropathy) and other medical conditions. Neuropathy can result in neuropathic pain and chronic numbness, tingling, and weakness.

Here are some questions to ask your doctor (e.g., neurologist) about peripheral neuropathy. Print this page, mark the questions you would like to have answered, and bring it with you to your next appointment. The more you know about neuropathy, the better you will be able to make informed decisions about your condition.


Questions to Ask Your Doctor about Neuropathy

•What do you suspect is the underlying reason for my neuropathy?

•Might my peripheral neuropathy be related to an undiagnosed condition, such as diabetes?

•What are other common risk factors for developing neuropathy?

•What are the most common signs and symptoms of neuropathy?

•What should I do if my condition worsens or I experience new symptoms?

•How will you determine for sure if I have peripheral neuropathy?

•What types of diagnostic tests will be performed?

•How should I prepare for these tests?

•Is the underlying cause for my neuropathy curable? Is it treatable?

•How will my condition be treated?

•What are the benefits, risks, and possible complications of this treatment?

•Will my neuropathy be treated with prescription medications? If so, how will these medicines be administered?

•What are the side effects of these drugs?

•What should I do if I experience severe medication side effects?
Telephone number to call:

•If left untreated, what are the possible complications of peripheral neuropathy?

•If prescription medicines are ineffective, what other treatment options are available?

•Might any alternative treatments be effective? If so, what do these treatments involve?

•Can you recommend any resources for support or additional information for people who have neuropathy?

•Next appointment:
Doctor: Date: Time:
Telephone number to call:

Physician-developed and -monitored.
Original Date of Publication: 31 Mar 2009
Reviewed by: Stanley J. Swierzewski, III, M.D.
Last Reviewed: 31 Mar 2009
Last Modified:19 Jul 2011

http://www.healthcommunities.com/neuropathy/patient-information/questions-to-ask-doctor.shtml

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Healthy Life Style Changes To Supplement The Pain Pills For Neuropathy

Today's post from authorityremedies.com (see link below) is an attractively presented list of tips for improving your diet to reduce neuropathy symptoms. The author calls them 'home remedies' which means that they are non-pharmaceutically-produced options but in effect the article is about life style changes and dietary improvement. Now hard-core neuropathy patients may already have moved on, preferring to trust in their pill cocktails and supplements to reduce their horrible symptoms but there's nothing wrong in reading this and making sensible changes as a result. There is nothing here that is bad for you, or fake, or new age mumbo-jumbo. Instead, it's a sensible list of improvements you can make from which you will probably feel better. However, don't expect overnight results - these are tips for the long term and just as with supplements and many medications, you need a few months before you may notice any improvements in your situation. It's a question of choices: do you prefer what seem to be quick-fix vitamin and supplement pills, plus chemical analgesics; or are you prepared to supplement those options, with healthy living options? The choice is yours. Either way, you can't be worse off by following most of these suggestions.

Top Natural Home Remedies for Neuropathy – 15 Useful Treatments
Last Updated: March 2, 2017 by Hannah Hall

Do you find the term “neuropathy” familiar? In fact, you may experience it without knowing its medical term.

In this article, Authority Remedies is about to equip you with some information about it and more importantly, top 15 natural home remedies for neuropathy.

What is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy refers to the pain and weakness in some specific areas that result from damages in the peripheral nerves[1][2].

The most common affected areas are hands and feet, but it does not diminish the possibility that other areas can be affected.

Neuropathy can lead to loss of felling, pain and controlling muscles failure.

What Causes Neuropathy?

Numerous studies have concluded that nerve damage is one of the leading causes of neuropathy. This triggers some other issues, including infection, trauma, exposure to toxic substances or metabolic matters.

In addition to nerve damges, diabetes is widely known as one of the contributing factors to neuropathy as well.

Those who have already suffered from some diseases, such as diabetes or problems relating to the liver or kidney, are more likely to endure neuropathy.

Besides, our daily lifestyle matters as well. If you are one of those who consume an excessive amount of alcohol, neuropathy will probably happen.

Other causes can include:
The lack of Vitamin: Vitamin B, B1, B12 and B6 are crucial for nerve health. Niacin and vitamin E also play an important role in improving nerve health as well.
Infections: several viral and bacterial infections can partly contrinute to the disease, such as shingles, Lyme disease, hepatitis C, HIV/AIDS or Epstein-Barr virus.
Genetic Disorders: They consist of Charcot-Marie-Tooth and amyloid polyneuropathy dieases.
Pressure or Injury on the nerves: Trauma, like sport injuries or motor vehical accients can pose a threate to the nerves. Hence, it can be made to contract pressure from the usage of crutches, motions that are repeated for several times or acting in an unusual position.

Once again, neuropathy has close connection with the deficiency of nutrients, say, vitamins B which are believed to be crucial for the well-beings of the nerves.

Read also: Top Superfoods for Diabetics

Is Neuropathy Contagious?

The answer is no.

Neuropathy is, actually, not contagious and it cannot spread from a person to a person like the way that a bacteria or virus can do.
What are the Symptoms of Neuropathy?

Although the severity may vary among sufferers, the painful feeling in hands or feet is the most common neuropathy symptoms.

Do not think that the pain is not a serious problem as it may prevent you from even touching something.

In several severe cases, damages can have significant effects on the autonomic nerves and it may lead to some changes in the blood pressure.

As a consequence, you may experience dizziness or lightheadedness.
How To Treat Neuropathy

There are lots of people who can find relief by using a great number of home remedies for neuropathy.

Neuropathy is not a fatal disease and you can get rid of it immediately at home by making some changes in diet.

However, when the symptoms do not disappear after many days, you had better have yourself examined by doctors so as to come up with the best treatment.

Following are top 15 natural home remedies for neuropathy that enable you to cope with this problem simply without spending too much money or effort.

1. Lavender

Lavender is one of the best natural home remedies for neuropathy thanks to its natural pain-killing quality.

Besides, it is also strongly anti-inflammatory, which means that lavender can effectively prevent inflammation and swelling in the nerves[3][4].

The aromatic smell of lavender is a great plus since it enables you to relax and get rid of anxiety.



How to apply:

You should take advantage of lavender oil. Get some drops of the oil and rub it over the areas affected by neuropathy to get rid of its pain quickly. You can repeat applying 2-3 times on a daily basis.

2. Soy


For those who suffer from neuropathy due to nutritional deficiency, soy is one of the most suitable natural remedies for neuropathy for them.

It is full of vitamin B6 that is believed to deal with the pain caused by neuropathy effectively[5].

When consumed, soy can stimulate the production of serotonin in the nervous system. This can make you become happier and of course, painless.

You can use soy products in everyday meals. Soy milk is a great recommendation too.

3. Rosemary



With antifungal, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial qualities, rosemary is a great home remedies for neuropathy[6].

It can eliminate the painful feeling almost instantly and limit the muscle spasms. Another benefit of rosemary is to strengthen your respiratory system.

To make the application easier, you should purchase rosemary oil. Rub several drops of it over the painful areas in your feet or hands a few times per day to get rid of neuropathy.

4. Peppermint



Known as a natural pain killer, peppermint proudly takes a spot in the list of top natural cures for neuropathy.

Its nutrients can help improve the blood circulation inside the body and the more blood is carried to the feet and hands, the less painful you feel[7].

In addition, it is super effective in putting the muscle spasms under control.

You can consume the tea from mixing peppermint leaves with boiling water. Or if you do not have much time, simply rub the leaves over the areas affected by neuropathy.

5. Broccoli



Apart from vitamin B, you need other kinds of vitamin to speed up the neuropathy treatment.

For example, vitamin C which is crucial for a strong immune system can protect your nerve from being inflamed[8][9].

Therefore, broccoli that is rich of vitamin C can be considered as one of the most effective neuropathy home remedies and you are strongly recommended to bring it more frequently in daily cooking.

You may be surprised at Benefits of Broccoli.

6. Banana

Another great source of vitamin B6 is banana – one of the best natural home remedies for neuropathy.

There are many well-known advantages in a small banana and now, you are suggested to consume it several times per day to get rid of neuropathy and its annoying symptoms.

7. Mushroom



Vitamin B9 also plays a vital role in the efforts to get rid of neuropathy.

Also known as folic acid, this kind of vitamin B can raise the number of red blood cells, protect the nerves from being damaged and foster the strength of your muscles[10].

With all of these qualities, foods that can provide much vitamin B9 can become great natural home remedies for neuropathy.

Undeniably, mushrooms are perfect choices for you.

8. Cayenne Pepper

The presence of capsaicin is one of the most outstanding features of cayenne pepper that is introduced as one of the best peripheral neuropathy natural treatment.

This compound is very powerful in dealing with the pain in the nerves.

On the other hand, pepper can provide a considerable amount of vitamins A and C to help boost your immunity in general.

Find out more top 1o incredible ways that cayenne pepper benefits you.

9. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is known as an excellent natural treatment for neuropathy.

Some grains can become the best natural home remedies for neuropathy because they contain much glycemic which is claimed to affect the level of blood sugar significantly.

One of the most common grains, oatmeal, is more suitable for those who suffer from diabetes.

It can help them get rid of neuropathy and its irritating symptoms quickly.

10. Tomato



When you know that tomato is full of vitamin C, B6 and B9, you will not be doubtful whether it is among great natural remedies for neuropathy in feet and hands or not.

You can get all of these necessary nutrients for the neuropathy treatment just from a single small tomato. It is really a bargain, isn’t it?

If you are interested in tomato, please read Health Benefits of Tomatoes.

11. Avoid Alcohol

As mentioned before, alcoholim is a contributor to neuropathy.

After reading what causes neuropathy, do you realize how harmful alcohol is to your nerves?

You are not completely forbidden to drink alcohol, but keep the habit of consuming little each time.

If you want to get rid of neuropathy as soon as possible, the best recommendation is to give up drinking for a period of time so that the healing process is accelerated.

Alcoholism can be treated in many different ways. Read more at: Home Remedies for alcoholism.

12. Walking

While the pain in the feet or hands makes you unwilling to perform some activities, it is important that you do some exercises to enhance the blood circulation in these areas.

It will help reduce the pain significantly.

About 30 minutes of walking on a daily basis can be much more beneficial than treatment which takes place for hours, right?

It is also a great way to relax your mind and strengthen your muscles.

13. Massage

Massage is one of the simplest and most popular natural home remedies for neuropathy as it can help you stop feeling painful immediately.

It is good for both the mind and they body at the same time.

Do not hesitate to go to your therapist right now to get rid of neuropathy quickly.

14. Fish



There is another type of vitamin B you need in the neuropathy treatment – B12. And fish is the best supplements for neuropathy because of vitamin B12.

This vitamin is important for the function of the nerves since it can stimulate the formation of red blood cells in your body.

On the other hand, fish is well-known to be super beneficial for our brain. The frequent consumption of fish can make us become more intelligent.

Please read Health Benefits of Salmon to know more about fish.

15. Avoid Smoking

If you are smoking right now, then give it up immidiately.

Like alcohol, smoking is one of the most dangerous factors that can worsen your condition immediately.

It stops the flow of blood from carrying blood to every part of the body and increases the possibility of your suffering from foot problems.

In brief, if you want to get rid of neuropathy as fast as possible, it is high time you gave up smoking.

Quitting smoking is no longer difficult with these simple but effective tips.

Read also: How To Quit Smoking

How To Prevent Neuropathy In The Future

To help prevent this condition, here are some of the handy-tips that you should take a consideration:
Always check your blood glucose levels
Consume a balanced and healthy diets, in which you need to take in enough minerals and vitamins that are neccessary for your body and nerve health. Bear in mind to include dairy products as well as low-fat meats into your diet and eat more fruits, vegetables and whole grains on a regular basis.
Try not to eat too much saturated fat and added sugar
Consume less gluten-rich foods

https://authorityremedies.com/home-remedies-for-neuropathy/

Whats the point of comments

...if they ignore the subject of the post and advertise something else?
I received the following 'comment' to the post about gene therapy. It may well be perfectly straightforward and helpful but it has nothing to do with gene therapy and is just advertising yet another 'pain clinic'. Come on guys! I've just posted about advertising via medical sites and then you get precisely that as the next comment! From now on, I will only publish comments which are relevant to the post itself (or a completely new subject that someone wants to talk about). If you're selling something, do it in your own space please.

Foreign Pharmacies said...
Florida Pain Clinics provide you with Pain relief medications and they have experts who are simply ideal and experienced with Pain Management skills.

In the Florida pain management clinics you will be provided with the bests of Pain relief medications and a variety many health care experts. They are trained and are experts in different pain management groups. Doctors in these clinics consist of rehabilitation doctors, anesthesiologists, neurologists, and probably every types of physician people need.

For the Pain relief medications there are different types of medicines that the Pain Management doctors utilize for bringing fast and permanent relief. Some of the commonly used Pain relief medications include Oxycodone, Hydrocodone, Acetaminophen, Lortab, Vicodin, Norco and many more. Let us discuss about each one of them and how they are helpful in controlling pain.