What is Neuropathic Pain?
Neuropathic Pain is a condition that occurs due to damage to the nerves originating from the spinal cord, accompanied by complaints such as burning-freezing, itching, stinging, pins and needles as well as pain.
How does it occur?
In normal pain; As a result of tissue damage (such as trauma, cut), the pain stimulus caused by neurochemical substances formed in that area is carried to our brain by the nervous system and we perceive it as pain. For example, we feel the needle sticking to our feet and pull it out. In neuropathic pain, on the other hand, since the damage is in the nerve itself, the nerve carries sensations in the form of abnormal sensations to our brain. For this reason, we perceive strange sensations as if needles are stinging, as if we have dipped them in boiling water, as if we are tingling, although we do not have a needle prick our feet. If we compare the nerve extension to an electrical cable, we can liken it to electrical leakage due to the damage of the plastic part on the outside.
What are the Causes of Neuropathic Pain?
Diabetes, thyroid diseases, some vitamin disorders, kidney diseases, Drugs (such as chemotherapy drugs) and poisons (such as agricultural drugs) that can damage the nervous system are the most common causes. It is the most important complaint of long-term diabetes patients. However, in more than half of the patients, no cause can be detected.
What are Neuropathic Pain Complaints?
Patients may have pain in the form of pain, pricking, itching sensation, burning or freezing. These complaints initially occur in the feet, but as the disease progresses, it spreads to the hands. In particular, the complaints increase when they go to bed at night and leave the patient sleepless. Sometimes patients feel the need to get up at night and dip their feet in cold water.
How is it Diagnosed?
The patient's statement about the pain and the examination findings are sufficient. However, nerve conduction tests can be done to show damage to the nerve, and blood-urine tests can be done to show possible diseases (diabetes, thyroid, kidney, etc.). Even if all these tests are normal, the diagnosis can still be made if the described and examination findings are compatible.
Is the Treatment Possible?
Neuropathic Pain life is toxic to the person. irritating situations. Only the living know this. However, if it is recognized and treated correctly, the patient is extremely relieved. Classic painkillers have no place in this type of pain. It is necessary to be treated with drugs that repair the damage in the nerve.
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