Understanding the causes of nerve damage is the first step to finding solutions. Here are some common causes:
Vitamin deficiency: Vitamins, especially the B vitamins (B12, B6, and B9), are extremely important for nerve health. You may not get enough of them if you don’t eat enough meat or have an intestinal parasite. These parasites can steal vitamin B12, leading to neuropathy over time. Some common medications can also cause vitamin deficiencies. For example, metformin, which is used to treat diabetes and other conditions, and antacids like omeprazole, can interfere with your body’s absorption of these vitamins. If you take these medications, it’s a good idea to have your vitamin B12 levels checked at least once a year.
Nerve compression: Sometimes a nerve becomes pinched or compressed. This is often caused by poor posture, such as sleeping or sitting, or by spending too much time typing at a computer. A spinal tumor or herniated disc can also compress nerves, causing neuropathy in the legs, feet, or hands. Muscle tension caused by stress can also lead to nerve compression, especially in the neck area.
Hidden infections: Believe it or not, some infections can cause nerve damage even years later. One example is Treponema pallidum, the bacteria that causes syphilis. It’s more common than you might think and can cause inflammation and nerve damage, leading to neuropathy and even dementia. The good news is that even old infections can be treated with penicillin.
High blood sugar (diabetes): Diabetes is a common cause of neuropathy, especially in people who have had diabetes for a long time or who don’t control their blood sugar properly. High blood sugar can damage nerves over time, leading to diabetic neuropathy. Medication side effects: In addition to metformin and omeprazole, other common medications can also cause neuropathy. For example, taking too much vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) can lead to nerve damage. While B vitamins are good for your nerves, taking too much of the medication can make it problematic, causing tingling, numbness, pain, and muscle weakness.
Symptoms of Neuropathy
How can you tell if what you’re experiencing is actually neuropathy? Here are the most common symptoms:
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