The answer to this question is simple.
Yes, you can have neuropathy without diabetes. In fact, the list of possible causes is very long. However, diabetes is the most common cause because it can cause serious damage to the nerves in the extremities of the body, especially the feet and hands. In fact, the condition that many people talk about (and unfortunately suffer from) is called peripheral neuropathy.
The word “peripheral” refers to the edges of the body, such as the feet, lower legs, hands, and wrists. Diabetes is one cause, along with alcoholism, vitamin B12 deficiency, thyroid problems, protein disorders, kidney disease, rheumatoid arthritis, poisoning from heavy metals or other toxins, autoimmune diseases, etc.
Disease of the Nerves
Neuropathy is a disease of the nerves, with diabetic neuropathy being a specific type. Inflammation can cause the problem, as can diseases such as shingles. Some people find temporary relief by placing an ice pack on the affected area, but as you can imagine, this relief is short-lived. You should probably take more permanent steps to deal with your nerve pain.
If you really have neuropathy, you're likely to feel tingling or numbness, and you may experience more intense pain – sharp, stabbing, burning. Some people go to a doctor to ask about something like a swollen ankle or pain in the feet that is causing them excruciating pain. When they are told they have neuropathy, they often respond by saying, “But I'm not diabetic.
Then the doctor tells them that there are dozens of other causes of nerve pain. A swollen ankle may not be neuropathy because this condition usually involves skin or surface pain, including the burning or stabbing sensations mentioned. Swelling may occur, but it's not a reason to immediately suspect neuropathy. For example, one person found the cause to be the chemotherapy she was receiving to treat cancer. This is not uncommon.
Smoking Etc.
Medical histories and separate studies have shown that neuropathy is related to the tobacco smoking habit. As mentioned, neuropathy is a disease of the nerves, and regular tobacco use can cause damage to the nerves in the extremities. If you're a smoker and you've started to experience tingling and numbness in your toes or fingertips, you may want to seriously consider quitting.
There's no guarantee that this will stop the tingling. But it could not only help, it could prevent future pain and more serious health problems. Swelling from an injury may accompany nerve damage, as injuries are definitely a potential cause of neuropathy. It's important for individuals to learn more from reliable sources if they are experiencing the sensations and pain described.
While many cases of neuropathy are idiopathic, a large number of cases can be diagnosed and linked to a specific cause. (Idiopathic simply means that the cause is unknown.)
At this point, it may be wise to take a closer look at the possible causes of neuropathy, nerve damage, and nerve pain. Some people report burning, tingling, and even pain in their feet and legs, yet they don't take steps to find the cause and begin treatment. Furthermore, remember to visit our store to check out the effective neuropathy products available.
Speaking of Causes
Chronic alcohol use and the consistent use of some prescription drugs can be causes of nerve damage. There is a lot you can do in these situations, although making lifestyle changes can sometimes be extremely difficult. If you have been in a situation that has exposed you to heavy metals such as mercury, you could also develop neuropathy. Some people have found that a medical condition like thyroid problems eventually leads to nerve pain or damage.
Eating right can be a very important way to treat current neuropathy problems and can help you avoid future problems. Vitamin deficiencies can lead to nerve damage, another source of the problem that can be addressed through diet and lifestyle changes. There are also hereditary conditions that can lead to neuropathy, although these may need to be diagnosed by a doctor.
In summary, diabetes is only one possible cause of this condition. Be an educated consumer and learn more about self-care and healthy living to prevent nerve pain and damage.
