The Causes of Peripheral Neuropathy As Explained by Our Concord Podiatrist
Peripheral neuropathy occurs when the nerves in your peripheral nervous system are destroyed. This usually happens in your feet, and it can cause a tingling feeling or stabbing or burning pain.
The treatment of peripheral neuropathy varies depending on the cause. There are many peripheral neuropathy causes because a number of factors could damage your nerves. It’s important to understand the cause of your condition before receiving treatment. Common causes include:
Nerve Trauma or Pressure
Injuries from car accidents, falls, or other traumas can damage the peripheral nerves in the feet. Nerve pressure sometimes results from using crutches, wearing a cast, or repeating a motion frequently.
Diabetes
Over half of all people with diabetes develop neuropathy, often in the feet.
Autoimmune Diseases
There are many autoimmune diseases that can cause peripheral neuropathy, including:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Lupus
- Sjogren’s syndrome
- Guillain-Barre syndrome
Infections
Severe viral or bacterial infections can cause the condition. Some infections that have led to peripheral neuropathy include:
- Lyme disease
- Shingles
- Leprosy
- Epstein-Barr virus
- HIV
Bone Marrow Disorders
Bone cancer, lymphoma, and amyloidosis can all be peripheral neuropathy causes. Monoclonal gammopathies, a disorder that causes abnormal protein in the blood, also can cause neuropathy.
Vitamin Deficiencies
Vitamin E, niacin, and vitamins B-1, B-6, and B-12 are all essential for nerve health. A deficiency can cause nerve damage.
Medications
Some medications are known to cause the condition. Medications that treat cancer are especially likely to increase your risk of developing peripheral neuropathy.
Alcoholism
Alcoholism combined with poor dietary choices can lead to a vitamin deficiency, which can cause the nerves to decay or become damaged.
If you experience tingling, burning, or other pain in your feet, you should visit our Concord foot doctor to discover whether it’s peripheral neuropathy. Treatment of peripheral neuropathy can manage your symptoms and relieve pain, so it’s important to seek medical attention as quickly as possible. If you think you may have neuropathy in your feet, contact our office today to schedule an appointment with a Concord podiatrist.