Neuropathic Pain: Quick Summary
Causes, symptoms, treatment, medicines & important warnings
Condition
Neuropathic Pain
What Is Neuropathic Pain?
Pain caused by damage, irritation or abnormal functioning of nerves
Common Symptoms
Burning, tingling, electric-shock-like pain, numbness, shooting pain and increased sensitivity to touch
Common Causes
Diabetes, nerve injury, shingles, nerve compression, certain medicines and some neurological conditions
Diabetic Neuropathy
Long-term high blood glucose can damage nerves and commonly cause burning or numbness in the feet and legs
Treatment
Treatment may include medicines, physical therapy, management of the underlying cause and lifestyle measures
Common Medicines
Depending on the cause, doctors may prescribe pregabalin, gabapentin, duloxetine, amitriptyline or other appropriate medicines
Topical Treatment
Capsaicin or lidocaine preparations may be considered for certain localized neuropathic pain conditions
Benefits of Treatment
Appropriate treatment can reduce pain intensity, improve sleep and support daily activities and quality of life
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on symptoms, medical history and examination; tests may be needed to identify the underlying cause
Lifestyle Measures
Good blood glucose control, regular physical activity, healthy nutrition and avoiding smoking may support nerve health
Foot Care
People with reduced sensation should regularly check their feet for cuts, blisters, burns or other injuries
⚠️ Important:
Neuropathic pain can have many different causes. Treatment should focus on identifying and managing the underlying condition rather than simply treating the pain. Do not start prescription nerve-pain medicines without medical advice.
Neuropathic pain can have many different causes. Treatment should focus on identifying and managing the underlying condition rather than simply treating the pain. Do not start prescription nerve-pain medicines without medical advice.
💊 Medicine Warning:
Medicines commonly used for neuropathic pain can cause dizziness, drowsiness or other side effects. Some medicines may also require gradual dose adjustment or tapering rather than abrupt discontinuation.
Medicines commonly used for neuropathic pain can cause dizziness, drowsiness or other side effects. Some medicines may also require gradual dose adjustment or tapering rather than abrupt discontinuation.
🩸 Diabetes Warning:
If neuropathic pain is associated with diabetes, controlling blood glucose and regularly checking the feet are important parts of care.
If neuropathic pain is associated with diabetes, controlling blood glucose and regularly checking the feet are important parts of care.
🚨 Seek Medical Attention:
Seek prompt medical evaluation for rapidly worsening weakness, significant loss of sensation, new bladder or bowel problems, severe unexplained pain or symptoms following a serious injury.
Seek prompt medical evaluation for rapidly worsening weakness, significant loss of sensation, new bladder or bowel problems, severe unexplained pain or symptoms following a serious injury.