Neuropathic pain is often described as a shooting or burning pain. It can go away on its own, but it is often chronic. Peripheral nerves have a great healing capacity. Although it may take months, a recovery can occur.
However, in some situations, the symptoms of neuropathy may decrease but not go away completely. For example, nerve injury caused by radiation often does not recover well. Neuropathy caused by chemotherapy is also difficult to cure, and recovery can take from 18 months to 5 years or more. During recovery from platinum-induced neuropathy, patients may suffer from increased symptoms.
Once neuropathy develops, few types can be completely cured, but early treatment can improve outcomes. Some nerve fibers can slowly regenerate if the nerve cell itself is still alive. Eliminating the underlying cause can prevent future nerve damage. Good nutrition and reasonable exercise can speed healing.
Quitting smoking will stop the blood vessels from constricting, so they can deliver more nutrients to help repair injured peripheral nerves. Mild pain can be relieved with over-the-counter pain relievers. For patients who have more severe neuropathic pain, anticonvulsants or antidepressants are commonly prescribed; their action on the central nervous system may calm overactive nerves. Topical patches that act through the skin, for example, by administering the anesthetic lidocaine or capsaicin with chili pepper extract, may also provide some relief.
Another option is the administration of a local anesthetic and steroid blockades (cortisone). When pain doesn't respond to these methods, alternatives may include cannabinoids or opioid analgesics. If these measures are ineffective, in a small and select group of patients, opioids can be introduced gradually after careful consideration of concerns and side effects. For some patients, a treatment regimen will also include physical or occupational therapy to rebuild strength and coordination.
Pain is the most common symptom of neuropathy. You can feel the pain at all times and the pain can come and go. Peripheral nerves have the ability to heal on their own. In some cases, the symptoms of neuropathy may be reduced, but not completely disappear.
You may also need medicine to treat any nerve pain (neuropathic pain) you are experiencing. Neuropathic pain is difficult to treat completely, but it is usually not life-threatening. You will achieve the best results by combining rehabilitation with support for your emotional, social and mental well-being. You will be able to control your pain to a level that improves your quality of life with the help of a pain specialist to use some or most of the methods listed above.
People with peripheral neuropathy usually describe pain as throbbing, burning, or tingling. In many cases, symptoms improve, especially if they are caused by a treatable condition. Medicines Can Reduce Pain in Peripheral Neuropathy. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice unusual tingling, weakness, or pain in your hands or feet.
Early diagnosis and treatment offers the best opportunity to control symptoms and prevent further damage to peripheral nerves. While neuropathic pain can go away on its own, it often becomes chronic. It is often the result of an injury or trauma that compresses or strikes a nerve and damages it beyond repair. For example, a herniated disc can push a nerve root or roots, which can send signals of neuropathic pain to the brain.
Over time, the herniated disc may stop compressing the nerve, but nerve tissue can be damaged and continue to send faulty pain signals to the brain. .
