Understanding Neuropathy: Causes, Symptoms, and Types

Neuropathy in Las Vegas, NV, can end up being a very serious condition. When your peripheral nerves are damaged it can lead to physical problems beyond just the obvious numbness. The danger of falling is increased and falls are a leading cause of serious injury and death. At Neuropathy and Pain Centers of Las Vegas, we have two physicians: Dr. Robert Odell is a medical doctor and Dr. Stephen Shaw is a doctor of chiropractor.  We offer many options for treating the pain that comes with neuropathy. 

Causes of Neuropathy

The causes of neuropathy are either acquired or genetic. Acquired neuropathy can be either symptomatic or idiopathic (unknown cause). Some of the acquired causes of neuropathy we commonly see in our Las Vegas office include:

Physical injury such as auto or sports accidents can cause damage to nerves. Broken bones, repetitive activities, and damage to the discs in the back are all potential causes. 

Diabetes affects the nerves in the extremities and especially in the feet, which makes infections less likely to be felt and harder for the body to fight. 

Vascular issues are the result of bad circulation that doesn't allow enough oxygen to get to the extremities and leads to pain and numbness.  

Systemic (body-wide) autoimmune diseases cause the body to attack the nerves when it mistakes them for foreign objects. 

Hormonal imbalances can result in edema and the swelling can put pressure on the nerves and lead to damage. 

Kidney and liver disorders can lead to an increase of toxins in the body. The increased toxins can cause damage to nerves.  

Symptoms of Neuropathy

The range and severity of neuropathy can be from mild to severe but is very rarely life-threatening. Pain can be sharp, tingling, or burning. Cramping that makes it difficult to walk, problems with coordination, and loss of balance are all symptoms. The loss of feeling in the area can make it very dangerous to walk or do other things that require feeling in your feet. 

Types of Neuropathy

 The most common types of neuropathy are: 

• Diabetic neuropathy
• Guillain-Barré syndrome
• Carpal tunnel syndrome 
• Meralgia paresthetica
• Complex regional pain syndrome 

If you're suffering from Neuropathy, in Las Vegas, NV, Dr. Odell of Neuropathy and Pain Centers of Las Vegas can provide the help that you need. Don't wait, give the office our call today at (702) 257-PAIN.