Do I need to see a neurologist for neuropathy?

A neurologist, or a physician who specializes in the treatment of disorders of the central and peripheral nervous systems, is the best physician to treat neuropathies.


Should you see a neurologist for neuropathy?

If your doctor suspects you may have a form of peripheral neuropathy, they may refer you to a neurologist, a doctor who specializes in diseases of the nerves.

What kind of doctor do you see when you have neuropathy?

You're likely to start by seeing your primary care provider. You may then be referred to a doctor trained in nervous system disorders (neurologist).


Who is the best person to see for neuropathy?

Neurologist. Neurologists diagnose and treat conditions of the peripheral and central nervous systems, including neuropathies.

Can a doctor do anything for neuropathy?

Typically, medications are prescribed to treat neuropathy. Because neuropathy tends to be a common problem in people with diabetes, many of these medications balance blood sugar levels. There are also medications available for people experiencing pain, which includes a lot of the antidepressant medications.


Common Neurological symptoms and when to consult a neurologist



What can a neurologist do about neuropathy?

Treatment for Peripheral Neuropathy

Our neurologists prescribe medication to treat neuropathy. A procedure called plasma exchange can help some people with peripheral neuropathy achieve remission.

What do doctors usually prescribe for neuropathy?

The main medicines recommended for neuropathic pain include:
  • amitriptyline – also used for treatment of headaches and depression.
  • duloxetine – also used for treatment of bladder problems and depression.
  • pregabalin and gabapentin – also used to treat epilepsy, headaches or anxiety.


What is the newest treatment for neuropathy?

Intraneural Facilitation (INF) treatment effectively restores blood flow to damaged nerves, decreasing pain caused by diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), according to a new study conducted by researchers at Loma Linda University Health.


What happens if neuropathy is not treated?

If the underlying cause of peripheral neuropathy isn't treated, you may be at risk of developing potentially serious complications, such as a foot ulcer that becomes infected. This can lead to gangrene (tissue death) if untreated, and in severe cases may mean the affected foot has to be amputated.

How does a doctor test you for neuropathy?

To diagnose Neuropathy correctly and develop a list of possible causes, an EMG/NCV (Electromyography/Nerve Conduction Velocity Study) is the most accurate and correct test and is required for a Confirmation Diagnosis.

What is the best treatment for neuropathy in your feet and legs?

An exclusive and effective treatment for neuropathy in the legs and feet, The Combination Electro-analgesia Therapy, (CET), has been extremely effective in relieving pain and discomfort, reversing your numbness, and restoring your sensation while improving your acuity, balance, and strength in your hands and feet.


How do you stop neuropathy from progressing?

Keep your blood sugar levels in your target range
  1. Report symptoms of diabetic neuropathy.
  2. If you have problems, get treatment right away. Early treatment can help prevent more problems later on. ...
  3. Take good care of your feet. ...
  4. Protect your feet. ...
  5. Get special shoes if needed. ...
  6. Be careful with exercising.


Can anything be done for neuropathy in the feet?

There is no cure for peripheral neuropathy but proper treatment will slow progression and address your symptoms. If the cause of the foot neuropathy is known, then treatment of the underlying cause may provide relief.

What are signs that you need to see a neurologist?

Common reasons to visit a neurologist
  • Chronic or severe headaches. ...
  • Chronic pain. ...
  • Dizziness. ...
  • Numbness or tingling. ...
  • Movement problems. ...
  • Memory problems or confusion.


Does neuropathy show up on an MRI?

Both US and MRI enable localization of the site of the pathology, identify the cause and extent of nerve involvement and visualize changes in the innervated muscles. Together, US and MRI are instrumental in facilitating diagnosis and management of patients with peripheral neuropathies.

When should I consider seeing a neurologist?

Numbness or weakness that comes on suddenly or happens on one side of the body (if you think you are having a stroke, however, go to the emergency room or call 911 immediately) Persistent (over weeks or months) or worsening numbness. Chronic muscle weakness or a rapid decline in muscle strength.

Can neuropathy turn into MS?

Despite these similarities, peripheral neuropathy and MS are completely distinct diseases with different causes and treatments. Both of them can worsen if they are not medically managed, so it is important to seek medical attention if you experience neurological symptoms.


What triggers neuropathy in your feet?

Peripheral neuropathy can result from traumatic injuries, infections, metabolic problems, inherited causes and exposure to toxins. One of the most common causes is diabetes. People with peripheral neuropathy generally describe the pain as stabbing, burning or tingling.

What makes neuropathy worse?

Nutritional or vitamin imbalances, alcoholism, and exposure to toxins can damage nerves and cause neuropathy. Vitamin B12 deficiency and excess vitamin B6 are the best known vitamin-related causes.

Are compression socks good for foot neuropathy?

Should you wear compression socks if you have neuropathy? Compression socks can help patients manage their neuropathy symptoms. These socks apply pressure to assist your feet and ensure blood keeps flowing in the correct direction.


Is neuropathy always permanent?

Living with peripheral neuropathy. The symptoms of peripheral neuropathy may lessen or go away over time, but in some cases they never go away.

What would be the first drug choice for treatment of neuropathic pain?

First line treatment in neuropathic pain is pregabalin, gabapentin, duloxetine and amitriptyline. Second choice drugs are topical capsaicin and lidocaine, which can also be considered as primary treatment in focal neuropathic pain. Opioids are considered as third choice treatment.

Does and don'ts do neuropathy?

DOs and DON'Ts in Managing Peripheral Neuropathy:

Exercise, eat healthy meals, lose weight, and quit smoking. DO avoid repetitive movements, cramped positions, toxic chemicals, and too much alcohol—things that cause nerve damage.


Should you see a podiatrist or neurologist for neuropathy?

Everyone with symptoms of peripheral neuropathy of the feet should see a podiatrist. Podiatrists are doctors who are specially trained to preserve the health of the feet.

Can you have neuropathy without diabetes?

However, diabetes is not the only cause of peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy can cause numbness, weakness, pain, prickling and twitching among other symptoms. It may be attributable to many conditions or illnesses.