Peripheral neuropathy Health Article

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if symptoms of peripheral neuropathy are present. In all cases, early diagnosis and treatment increases the possibility that symptoms can be controlled.

Nerve pain, such as that caused by peripheral neuropathy, can be difficult to control. If pain is severe, contact a pain specialist to make sure you get the best and most up-to-date pain treatment.

Emergency symptoms include irregular or rapid heartbeats, difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, and fainting.

Prevention

If a prolonged procedure or immobility is expected, appropriate measures (such as padding vulnerable areas) can be taken beforehand to reduce the risk of nerve problems.

Some people have a hereditary predisposition for neuropathy. Such people need to be especially careful to limit alcohol and manage other medical problems closely.

All people can reduce the risk of neuropathy through a balanced diet, drinking alcohol in moderation, and maintaining good control of diabetes and other medical problems, if present.

References

Delalande S, de Seze J, Fauchais AL, et al. Neurologic manifestations in primary Sjogren syndrome: a study of 82 patients. Medicine (Baltimore). 2004 Sep;83(5):280-91.

Mori K, Iijima M, Sugiura M. Sjogren's syndrome associated painful sensory neuropathy without sensory ataxia. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 2003 Sep;74(9):1320-2.