Who is at most risk for developing peripheral neuropathy?

Neuropathy often seems to appear with no warning, but that is rarely the case. In most cases, nerve pain is the result of some other problem.

The risk for developing painful Neuropathy can come from one single source or a combination of sources.

If you are worried that you may in danger of developing peripheral Neuropathy, look at the risk factors below.

Take note of any Neuropathy-type symptoms if you also suffer from one or more of the following:

Infections: The most common bacterial infection that causes Neuropathy is Lyme Disease. However, any type of infection like an upper respiratory infection, viral infection, herpes, mononucleosis can damage nerves.

Accidents or Trauma: Any type of injury that causes swelling near nerves or that damages nerve fibers (like a several laceration or surgery) can result in Neuropathy.

Alcoholism: Researchers believe that excessive consumption of alcohol can directly wear away nerve fibers, cause vitamin deficiencies that weaken nerves, and reduce levels of thiamine in the body, which is needed to keep
nerves strong and healthy.

Vitamin Deficiency & Overload: The body needs the right mix of vitamins to work properly. Give it too little and the body suffers; give it too much and you cause toxicity.

For instance, research shows that ingesting more than 100 mg of B6 daily can cause a build-up which can cause a deficiency in other B vitamins. This reaction has been shown to cause never damage.

Cancer treatments: Chemotherapy drugs are known to attack nerve cells, but radiation therapy can also cause problems, resulting in nerve pain.

Medications: Taking any kind of regular medication can result in side effects.

Some of the drugs commonly associated with Neuropathy include those taken to lower blood pressure and cholesterol.

The FDA has warned that using Fluoroquinolones(antibiotics) may cause temporary Neuropathy in some people.

Kidney problems: When the kidneys are not working properly, fluids and waste products accumulate in the body, which can cause Neuropathy.

Connective Nerve Tissue Disease: disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and sarcoidosis all cause chronic inflammation in and around joints and nerves.

When the protective tissue surrounding nerves become inflamed, it can spread to nerve fibers, actually damaging them.