Causes of neuropathy

Neuropathy has many causes. In about a third of people, a cause is found only after careful testing.

Diabetes

Long-term high blood sugar damages nerves and their blood supply. It is the most common cause, and the risk rises with the length of diabetes and poor control.

Nutrition and alcohol

• Vitamin B12 deficiency, common in vegetarians, older adults and people on metformin or acid-reducing medicines
• Folate and other vitamin deficiencies
• Heavy long-term alcohol use
• Too much vitamin B6 from supplements

Other medical conditions

• Kidney, liver and thyroid disease
• Autoimmune disease such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and Guillain-Barre syndrome
• Infections such as leprosy, HIV, hepatitis and shingles
• Cancers and blood disorders

Medicines and toxins

Some chemotherapy drugs, anti-TB medicines, certain antibiotics, heart medicines and heavy metals can damage nerves.

Injury and pressure

Accidents, repetitive strain, tight casts and long pressure on a nerve, as in carpal tunnel syndrome.

Inherited

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and other inherited forms.

Risk factors

Diabetes, alcohol use, age over 50, poor nutrition, family history and exposure to toxins.

Ayurvedic view

Aggravated Vata and tissue depletion are traditionally linked to nerve disorders. This is interpretive.

Remember

Finding the cause, for example by checking blood sugar and B12, decides the treatment.

When to get help

See a doctor if you have numbness, tingling, burning pain or weakness that lasts more than a few days, especially with diabetes. Avoid long self-medication and unknown herbal products, and do not use oils, herbs or home remedies on infants or young children without a paediatrician's advice. In an emergency call 112 or 102.