Neuropathy damages nerves and affects mobility in seniors. The tingling, pins, and needles reduce the quality of life. As people age, neuropathy risks increase alongside weakness. However, minor adjustments can help overcome isolation. Let us learn simple techniques for supporting elderly loved ones suffering from nerve damage.
#1. Give Natural Supplements
According to Empower Health Labs, inhibiting the MMP-13 enzyme may allow for simultaneous treatment of multiple pain pathways involved in peripheral nerve damage. Dietary supplements such as Beyond Nerve Relief by Phytage address these pain pathways. The goal is to promote nervous system health and potentially restore a more active lifestyle. The formulation is intended to address seven key pain pathways, assisting older adults in regaining the vibrant and energetic lifestyle they previously enjoyed.
#2. For Localized Neuropathic Pain, Topical Capsaicin May Provide Relief
Capsaicin is the compound in chili peppers that induces their heat sensation. When applied to the skin, it works on pain nerves, potentially interrupting pain signal transmission to the brain.Regularly using a small amount, about pea-sized, rubbed onto the painful area 3-4 times daily may help reduce sensations. However, initial skin irritation and burning in the treated region can occur as side effects until tolerance builds.Make sure the elderly person practices good hygiene. This could include avoiding application over broken/wounded skin and washing hands after use. As with any pain treatment option, close monitoring of any side effects or lack of benefit is important.
#3. Explore Anticonvulsant Therapy as Part of a Multimodal Neuropathic Pain Treatment Plan
Anticonvulsants, also known as anti-seizure or anti-epileptic drugs, are frequently prescribed to help calm overexcited nerves involved in neuropathic pain conditions. Epilepsy and certain types of neuropathic pain may share similar molecular factors contributing to nerve hyperexcitability, potentially explaining their effectiveness for both.However, drugs in this class do not all function identically. Efficacy can vary between specific drugs and conditions. While some are FDA-approved to treat pain directly, others are prescribed off-label.Common anticonvulsants prescribed for nerve pain include gabapentin (Neurontin), approved for post-herpetic neuralgia and also used for fibromyalgia, diabetic neuropathy, etc. Pregabalin (Lyrica) is approved for post-herpetic neuralgia, diabetic neuropathy, fibromyalgia, and other conditions. Carbamazepine (Tegretol) is approved for trigeminal neuralgia and is also used for diabetic neuropathy and postherpetic neuralgia. Oxcarbazepine (Trileptal) and valproate have shown benefits for trigeminal neuralgia and diabetic neuropathy when used off-label.Careful consideration of each drug's individual pros, cons, and safety profile aids in determining if an anticonvulsant is suitable for a therapeutic trial. This approach is crucial for addressing the elderly person’s specific neuropathic pain. Ongoing provider monitoring also helps ensure medications are appropriately titrated for maximum relief and minimum side effects.
#4. Duloxetine (Cymbalta)
Duloxetine (Cymbalta) is an oral drug taken once daily that holds FDA approval specifically for treating diabetic neuropathic pain. It can also be recognized as an antidepressant prescribed for conditions like depression.
This medication possesses a cost advantage over some alternatives. Without insurance, the approximate retail price for a month's supply averages around $121 currently.
#5. Combining Light Therapy with Other Neuropathy Treatment Options
Red and near-infrared light therapy is a non-invasive procedure that uses light wavelengths between 635 and 940 nm. This light energy may help speed cell repair and regeneration as it increases energy at the cellular level.An advantage of this therapy is its ability to penetrate deeper tissues like muscles due to the wavelengths used. This allows it to potentially address root causes of nerve damage rather than just symptoms.This treatment aims to reduce neuropathic pain, minimize inflammation and swelling, enhance blood circulation, and lessen discomfort from nerve injury. Non-invasive procedures or drugs are involved.
What Causes Neuropathy, Anyway?
Peripheral neuropathy can arise from various causes:
Uncontrolled type 2 diabetes is a major cause because prolonged high blood sugar levels can damage peripheral nerves. This often results in a loss of sensation in the feet and lower legs.
Chronic alcohol abuse can damage nerves directly and indirectly through vitamin deficiencies.
Insufficient levels of certain nutrients, particularly copper and vitamins B1, B6, B9, B12, and E, can lead to nerve damage. Paradoxically, excessive vitamin B6 can also be harmful.
Autoimmune and inflammatory disorders like Guillain-Barré syndrome, CIDP, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjögren's syndrome can affect peripheral nerves.
Some medications, including certain chemotherapy drugs, antibiotics, and treatments for arrhythmia and gout, may cause neuropathy. Exposure to toxic substances like heavy metals or industrial chemicals can also be culprits.
Both cancerous and benign tumors can interfere with the peripheral nervous system.
Inherited conditions such as amyloidosis, Fabry disease, and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease can result in peripheral neuropathy.
Infections caused by viruses (e.g., HIV) or bacteria (e.g., Lyme disease) can damage nerves. Shingles is another common infectious cause of persistent nerve pain.
Hansen's disease (leprosy) affects peripheral nerves and remains a significant cause of neuropathy in developing countries.
Direct nerve trauma from injuries or surgical procedures can lead to localized, potentially long-term neuropathy.
Similarly, vascular disorders affecting circulation can cause nerve damage, ranging from temporary numbness to severe, permanent issues. In many cases, the cause remains unknown, referred to as idiopathic or cryptogenic neuropathy.
FAQs
1. What activities should people with neuropathy avoid?
For those experiencing nerve damage in their feet, it's advisable to steer clear of activities that stress the affected areas repeatedly. This includes exercises involving prolonged impact on the feet, such as extended running, walking, or high-intensity aerobic routines. These activities may increase the risk of complications like sores, bone fractures, or problems with joints in neuropathy-affected feet.
2. How can individuals with neuropathy improve their balance?
To enhance balance and stability, people with neuropathy can try specific exercises targeting foot and leg strength. These may include practicing walking in a straight line by placing one foot directly in front of the other and standing on one leg for short periods. Additionally, repeatedly rising up on the toes is recommended.
3. Which foods might worsen neuropathy symptoms?
While individual responses may vary, some foods are recommended to be limited or avoided by those with neuropathy. These include gluten, excessive alcohol, foods high in added sugars or refined carbohydrates, unhealthy fats, and heavily processed products. It's important to note that even seemingly healthy foods might contain ingredients that could potentially exacerbate neuropathy symptoms. In the end, supporting elderly loved ones with neuropathy requires a holistic approach. While medications can help manage pain, lifestyle factors are also important to overall nerve health. Simple adjustments like topical creams, physical therapy, and assistive devices can maintain independence. However, the underlying causes also warrant attention. A nutrient-rich diet and reducing risk factors like blood sugar control or toxic exposures may slow progression. Even natural supplements show promise when combined with clinical support. Most importantly, social engagement combats isolation regularly experienced by those with limited mobility.
