Also known as peripheral neuropathy, peripheral neuritis is an inflammation of the peripheral nerves of the human body. Peripheral neuritis treatment options include treating the cause, medications to reduce pain, therapy, and various other options. Adopting specific lifestyle changes can also help treat and reduce the symptoms associated with peripheral neuritis.
Peripheral nerves receive signals from the central nervous system. They transmit these signals to various muscles and organs. These signals are responsible for muscle movements and bodily functions controlled by the organs of the human body.
There are several causes of peripheral neuritis, and the specific cause needs to be taken into account when choosing a peripheral neuritis treatment. Common causes include alcoholism, infectious disease, poor nutrition, and gout. Chronic diseases such as diabetes and arthritis can also lead to inflammation of the peripheral nerves. An electromyography (EMG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) can help doctors diagnose the specific cause or likely cause of the disease.
Treating the cause of the peripheral neuropathy can help relieve the symptoms associated with the condition. For example, getting diabetes under control with medication or lifestyle modification can control the issue. The goal is to relieve the inflammation and pressure on the peripheral nerves associated with the disease or condition.
Taking measures to control the pain associated with the condition is another peripheral neuritis treatment option. Pain relievers, anti-seizure medications, and topical anesthetics can all help control pain caused by nerve damage. Antidepressants have also been beneficial for reducing pain in peripheral neuropathy patients.
Therapeutic treatments also exist as part of a peripheral neuritis treatment plan. This includes using transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) to help reduce the pain and inflammation associated with the peripheral nerves. Physical therapy may also be suggested to help with increasing range of motion and maintaining flexibility.
Surgery is another option. It is reserved for cases related to compression of the nerve, such as a slipped disk in the back. Another cause of compression related peripheral neuritis is tumors located near the nerve and impinging on the nerve itself.
Those with peripheral neuritis can make a variety of lifestyle changes to help improve symptoms related to the disorder. This includes losing weight and eating a healthy diet. Taking vitamin supplements to correct vitamin deficiencies is also recommended as a peripheral neuritis treatment. Avoiding alcohol and other toxins can also help limit the pain and other symptoms related to the disease, such as muscle loss and painful cramping.