Neuropathy is a catchall term that refers to damage to your peripheral nerves. It’s typically associated with diabetes, although there are other reasons for this damage. Preventive measures and good management techniques go a long way toward dealing with neuropathy, which is where a neurologist like Dr. Mohammad Khan comes in. At his practice, Chandler Neurology and Sleep Disorders Associates, PC, he helps patients in the Chandler, Arizona, area stay one step ahead of neuropathy. For expert treatment, call or use the online scheduling tool to request an appointment.

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What is neuropathy?

Neuropathy, which is also referred to as peripheral neuropathy, is, quite simply, nerve damage. There are several conditions that lead to neuropathy, with diabetes at the top of the list.

Diabetes isn’t one disease, but a group of diseases that affect how your body regulates glucose in your blood. However, when diabetes presents itself, the bottom line is that your body is unable to produce enough insulin to keep your blood sugar level in check, which builds up in your blood vessels, creating blockages that eventually lead to nerve damage.

While diabetes is the main driver behind neuropathy, accounting for 60% of nerve damage, there are other conditions that can compromise your nerves, such as:

  • Idiopathic peripheral neuropathy, which has no known cause
  • Chemotherapy
  • HIV/AIDS treatment
  • Metabolic disorders
  • Autoimmune disorders
  • Physical trauma
  • Infectious diseases
  • Nutrient deficiencies

The long list of possible suspects that contribute to neuropathy means that comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis by Dr. Khan is the first order of business when it comes to nerve damage.

What are the symptoms of neuropathy?

One of the keys to discovering the origin of your neuropathy is to take a close look at your symptoms. Neuropathy presents itself in many ways, but there are some common characteristics, including:

  • Numbness
  • Tingling
  • Weakness
  • Dizziness
  • Problems with balance
  • Increased sensitivity
  • Organ dysfunction

By thoroughly reviewing your symptoms and running a series of diagnostic tests, such as a nerve conduction study, Dr. Khan is better able to zero in on the root cause of your neuropathy, which allows him to better manage the problem.

How do you treat neuropathy?

Existing neuropathy cannot be reversed, which means that Dr. Khan’s role is to help you prevent further damage. To do this, he relies on preventive practices that maintain the health of your nerves, which usually entails addressing the underlying problem. For example, for diabetics, this means better regulation of your blood sugar levels and constant monitoring.

Dr. Khan may also recommend lifestyle changes that help prevent further deterioration of your peripheral nerves, which include diet and lifestyle changes.

When it comes to neuropathy, early intervention is critical. Call Chandler Neurology and Sleep Disorders Associates, PC, to get started, or schedule a consultation using the online scheduler.