The most effective treatment forneuropathyvaries from person to person.
There are also effective ways to alleviate neuropathy symptoms.
This article discusses the most effective treatment options for neuropathy depending on the underlying cause.
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What Is the Most Effective Treatment for Neuropathy?
Neuropathy is usually considered a symptom or complication of another underlying condition.
Thus, the most effective treatment is the one that targets the underlying cause.
It’s important to note that once neuropathy develops, it cannot be reversed or cured.
However, effectively treating the underlying cause of the neuropathy can prevent it from getting worse.
It can also help manage neuropathy symptoms, including weakness, numbness, and pain.
Treatment options for the most common causes of neuropathy are as follows.
Critical Illness Neuropathy
Critical illness neuropathy develops as a complication of a severe, acute illness.
It is the most common cause of nerve-related muscle weakness in hospital intensive care units.
The exact process by which critical illness neuropathy develops is not always clear.
Treatment is therefore case-by-case and may involve managing infections, restoring fluid and electrolyte balances, and physical therapy.
In cases of severe neuropathy, recovery may be limited or may not improve at all.
The disorder often develops after a viral respiratory or gastrointestinal infection.
The onset of GBS requires immediate hospitalization.
For most people, the disorder eventually resolves within a year of its onset.
How it’s treated:Diabetic neuropathy is best managed by getting blood sugar levels under control.
While blood sugar control will not cure neuropathy, it will prevent it from getting worse.
Alcoholic Neuropathy
Long-term, excessive alcohol consumption can damage nerves and result in alcoholic neuropathy.
Up to one-half of all long-term excessive alcohol drinkers will eventually develop alcoholic neuropathy.
How it’s treated:The best treatment for alcoholic neuropathy is discontinuing alcohol consumption.
It cannot be cured or reversed.
However, treating the underlying cause of neuropathy can prevent it from getting worse and may improve symptoms.
Treatment for neuropathy symptoms might include tricyclic antidepressants, anti-seizure medications, or electrical stimulation.
Physical therapy can also help with managing neuropathy and improving mobility.
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