©oxysolution.com 1 pain, numbness, burning sensation etc. are all caused by nerve damage,...
TRANSCRIPT
©OxySolution.com 1
©OxySolution.com 2
Copyright © 2016 SuccessVantage Group Pte Ltd. All rights reserved. Published by Kevin Richardson Notes to the Reader: No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopied, recorded, scanned, or otherwise, except as permitted under U.S copyright law, without the prior written permission of the author. The statements found within the pages of this book have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This publication is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information with regard to the subject matter covered. If a product or treatment is recommended in these pages, it is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information contained herein is meant to be used to educate the reader and is in no way intended to provide individual medical advice. The publisher and the contributors are not engaged in rendering medical advice. All information contained in this book is received from sources believed to be accurate, but no guarantee, express or implied, can be made. Readers are encouraged to verify for themselves, and to their own satisfaction, the accuracy of all information, recommendations, conclusions, comments, opinions or anything else contained within these pages before making any kind of decisions based upon what they have read herein. The author of this e-book is not a licensed practitioner of medicine; therefore, the techniques, ideas, and opinions here are not intended as a substitute for proper medical advice! The information provided here is solely for informational purposes only. If medical advice or other professional assistance is required, the services of a competent professional should be sought. The author does not accept any responsibility for any liabilities resulting from any health decisions made by purchasers of this book. The words contained in this text which are believed to be trademarked, service marked, or to otherwise hold proprietary rights have been designated as such by the use of initial capitalization. Inclusion, exclusion, or definition of a word or term is not intended to affect, or to express judgment upon the validity of legal status of any proprietary right which may be claimed for a specific word or term. Individual results may vary.
©OxySolution.com 3
CONTENTS
Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 6
The Basics Of Nerve Pain ................................................................................................................ 7
Nerves Getting Affected ................................................................................................................. 9
1. Cranial Nerve ....................................................................................................................... 9
2. Peripheral Nerve ................................................................................................................. 9
3. Central Nerve .................................................................................................................... 10
4. Autonomic Nerve .............................................................................................................. 10
Types Of Neuropathy .................................................................................................................... 11
1. Mono Neuropathy ...................................................................................................... 11
2. Poly Neuropathy ............................................................................................................... 12
2. Autonomic Neuropathy .............................................................................................. 12
Nothing Nervous About The Nervous System .............................................................................. 14
FUNCTION ................................................................................................................................. 14
Structure ................................................................................................................................... 15
1. Central Nervous System ........................................................................................................ 15
Brain .......................................................................................................................................... 16
1. Forebrain ........................................................................................................................... 16
2. Hindbrain........................................................................................................................... 17
3. Brain Stem ......................................................................................................................... 17
Spinal Cord ................................................................................................................................ 17
Neurons ..................................................................................................................................... 17
1. Sensory Neurons ............................................................................................................... 18
2. Motor Neurons ................................................................................................................. 18
3. Inter Neurons .................................................................................................................... 18
2. Peripheral Nervous System ................................................................................................... 18
1. Autonomic Nervous System .............................................................................................. 19
©OxySolution.com 4
Sympathetic System .............................................................................................................. 19
Parasympathetic System ....................................................................................................... 19
Somatic Nervous System ...................................................................................................... 19
What Is Nerve Pain All About? .................................................................................................. 21
What Causes The Pain? ............................................................................................................. 21
How Does It Occur?................................................................................................................... 22
Who Experiences It? ................................................................................................................. 22
Noticeable Symptoms ............................................................................................................... 23
1. Tachycardia ....................................................................................................................... 23
2. Urinary Problems .............................................................................................................. 23
3. Sexual Problems ................................................................................................................ 24
4. Hypotension ...................................................................................................................... 24
Different Types Of Neurosis/Neuropathy/Neuralgia................................................................ 25
Anxiety Neurosis ................................................................................................................... 25
Agoraphobia .............................................................................................................................. 26
Panic ...................................................................................................................................... 26
Postherpetic Neuralgia ......................................................................................................... 27
Phantom Limb Pain ............................................................................................................... 27
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome ........................................................................................................... 28
Sciatica .................................................................................................................................. 28
Trigeminal Neuralgia ............................................................................................................. 29
Diabetic Neuropathy ................................................................................................................. 30
Central Pain Syndrome ......................................................................................................... 30
Pudendal Neuralgia ............................................................................................................... 31
Diagnosing The Nerve Pain ........................................................................................................... 32
Patient’s History ........................................................................................................................ 32
Physical Examination ................................................................................................................ 33
Electromyography ..................................................................................................................... 33
©OxySolution.com 5
Nerve Function Tests ................................................................................................................ 34
Motor Nerves ........................................................................................................................ 34
Sensory Nerves ......................................................................................................................... 34
Cranial Nerves ........................................................................................................................... 35
Electromyography ..................................................................................................................... 35
X-Ray ......................................................................................................................................... 35
Nerve Conduction Test ............................................................................................................. 36
Freeing Yourself From Nerve Pain ................................................................................................ 37
Holistic Pain Relief Remedies .................................................................................................... 37
Healthy Eating Habits ............................................................................................................ 37
Vitamin C Foods .................................................................................................................... 37
Vitamin B12 Foods ................................................................................................................ 38
Water .................................................................................................................................... 38
Anti-Oxidant Foods ............................................................................................................... 38
Anti-Inflammatory Foods ...................................................................................................... 38
Capsaicin ................................................................................................................................... 39
Relaxation And Meditation ................................................................................................... 39
Alternative Pain Relief Measures .............................................................................................. 39
Physical Therapy ................................................................................................................... 40
Massage Therapy .................................................................................................................. 40
Acupuncture .............................................................................................................................. 41
Counseling ............................................................................................................................. 41
Anti-Depressants/Anticonvulsants/Pain Relief Drugs .......................................................... 41
Traditional Pain Relief Medicines ......................................................................................... 42
Psychological Treatments ..................................................................................................... 42
Latest Findings And Conclusion .................................................................................................... 43
Protein Lrp1............................................................................................................................... 43
Plastic Surgery ........................................................................................................................... 44
Lkb1 Gene ................................................................................................................................. 44
Enzyme Isolation ....................................................................................................................... 45
©OxySolution.com 6
Introduction
Excruciating pain, numbness, burning sensation etc. are all caused by nerve damage,
destruction, or weakness. There are different types of painful sensations we feel throughout
our lives. Nerve pain, however, is the worst.
When a nerve gets damaged or weakens, it starts to affect our nervous system. Nerves play a
prominent role in keeping us moving. Our entire body is made up of nerves that are like wires
and these wires are connected to the brain. We all know that our brain helps us conduct
different tasks and if the nerves that are connected to the brain are damaged, the entire
function of our body is affected, causing nerve pain. Nerve pain can be exhausting and it often
makes a person’s brain numb. People who have nerve pain cannot function efficiently and the
quality of their lives gets affected too.
Nerve pain can be caused by a number of factors among which the prominent are HIV, cancer,
diabetes, shingles, and stroke. A person experiencing nerve pain might describe the pain as a
sharp shooting sensation, numbness, fire sensation, stabbing, prickling, and much more. These
pain sensations affect the spinal cord and brain. There are several terminologies used for nerve
pain. Some call it neurosis and some call it neuralgia. No matter what you call it, nerve pain can
affect the way you carry out different tasks in your life.
With advancement in technology, and new research being conducted in various sectors,
medical science has come a long way and medical professionals now have the solution to most
problems. Thankfully, nerve pain falls in the category of treatable conditions and people who
are suffering from it should take help from professionals and improve the quality of their life.
©OxySolution.com 7
The Basics Of Nerve Pain
Nerve pain, often known as chronic pain, occurs when a nerve is damaged. This pain can be
caused by a variety of reasons including trauma, injury, and inflammation to name a few. Nerve
pain is also caused by different medical conditions or illnesses.
Many people describe the pain as tingling and feel numbness in the feet and hands. However,
the symptoms may differ from person to person depending on the type of damaged nerve.
People with nerve pain can feel exhausted most of the time due to the intensity of the pain.
This pain often causes the brain to function abnormally. A great problem caused by nerve pain
is that people suffering from it find it hard to focus at work, studies, and everyday tasks. They
might also feel tired and fatigued. The nervous system plays an important role in keeping us
healthy and when it gets affected, the entire system is disturbed.
The brain sends out the signals to the spinal cord and peripheral nerves to the affected area
where the damaged nerve is present. The damaged nerve sends signals of pain to the brain. It is
also interesting to know that the causes of nerve pain are not always physical and can also be
psychological.
Consider the case of a lady aged 35 with three kids and does not have enough financial support.
She faced many problems raising her three children. Her husband died in a car crash a few
months ago and this puts her under massive stress and anxiety. Due to this anxiety, one of her
nerves was damaged, causing her to cope with extreme nerve pain while tackling her
responsibilities. She couldn’t focus on work and felt tired all the time. After a few painful
months, one of her friends recommended a psychiatrist. She visited the psychiatrist who forced
her to take part in a therapy session and with the help of some anti-depressants, she was able
to overcome her pain.
Nerve pain does not usually go away entirely. A person whom is treated can still feel pain but
with less intensity. Nerve pain can be caused by a number of reasons depending on the type of
nerve that is damaged. This pain is caused mainly due to the damage in the sensory or motor
nerves. When the tissue of these nerves gets damaged, a person feels nerve pain.
©OxySolution.com 8
Nerve pain is caused when the inner cell of the nerve gets damaged. This cell is known as axon.
Axon is the inner information pathway that sends and receives signals from the brain. When
this cell or the nerve tissue gets damaged, nerve pain occurs.
Our nervous system is the main system of the body that allows us to perform different tasks
and our major activities are connected to the nervous system. When a nerve gets damaged, this
system gets disrupted and the signals that are being sent to the brain are abnormal. This causes
extreme pain and disability conduct different activities that we do on a daily basis. The nervous
system controls the major activities that are given below:
1. The nervous system allows us to think, reason, memorize
2. The nervous system controls the five senses that are; smell, touch, hearing, feeling, and sight
3. The nervous system controls our actions and movements
4. The nervous system also controls different functions of our body including blood flow and
blood pressure
In many cases, when the nerve damage is extreme, it can cause the loss of function. This usually
happens when a person goes through an accident and the nerve gets damaged or destroyed
completely, resulting in paralysis. The symptoms of nerve pain or damage can range from mild
to severe. In some cases it might only be pain in a certain area of the body and in other it might
cause extreme damage.
©OxySolution.com 9
Nerves Getting Affected
Nerve pain is caused when there is possible nerve damage. Our spinal cord is the main player in
our body. The entire nerves in our body are attached to the spinal cord. Whatever we do, the
signals are received and go out from the spinal cord to the brain. It plays the main role in letting
us perform our daily activities, from minor to major.
Neuropathy is a term that is used for a nerve damage or condition. Our nervous system
comprises of several nerves and these nerves can be damaged from a number of reasons. There
are different nerves located in different parts of our body and these nerves have their
individual names.
1. Cranial Nerve
Cranial nerves are an important part of the nervous system and they directly travel to the brain.
These nerves are located on the underside of the brain. There are twelve types of cranial nerves
including hypoglossal nerve, spinal accessory nerve, vagus nerve, vestibulocochlear nerve,
glossopharyngeal nerve, facial nerve, abducens nerve, trochlear nerve, oculomotor nerve, optic
nerve and olfactory nerve.
The cranial nerves help us carry out our day to day functions, and damage to one of these
nerves can cause damage to sight, hearing and sense of taste. Cranial nerves can be damaged
by a stroke, illness, injury, tumor, inflammation, drugs, toxins, infections, etc. When there is a
severe damage to the cranial nerves, a person might lose its ability to see, smell, feel, and taste
things. In some cases, cranial nerve damage can cause a change in facial expressions.
2. Peripheral Nerve
Peripheral nerves are the nerves that affect toes, hands, legs, arms, feet, and fingers when
damaged. This is known as peripheral neuropathy. The peripheral nerves are part of the
peripheral nervous system that is outside the spinal cord and brain. The damage in the
peripheral nerves causes numbness, weakness, and pain in the hands, toes, feet, legs, etc.
Peripheral nerve damage often causes the loss of sensation, feeling of burning and tingling.
©OxySolution.com 10
There are a variety of effects that are caused by peripheral nerve damage. Damage to
peripheral nerves can cause extreme pain or no feeling at all. These pains can be caused due to
an injury, infection, illness, disorder, etc. These pains are intense and can cause problems in
functions of the body majorly metabolism.
Some of the major symptoms of peripheral nerve damage are: tingling, cold and hot sensation,
excessive sweating, constipation, shocked sensation, shooting pain, drop of blood pressure,
diarrhea, heavy feeling in arms and legs, etc.
3. Central Nerve
The central nervous system consists of many nerves that control various functions of the body.
Damage to the central nervous system can cause neurological or psychiatric disabilities. The
central nervous system is also damaged due to an infection, disease, injury, illness,
autoimmune disorder, stroke, trauma, mood disorders, and much more. This damage can take
away a person’s ability to perform and in extreme cases causes diseases like diabetes and
paralysis.
4. Autonomic Nerve
Autonomic nerves are part of the nervous system that controls involuntary body functions
including blood pressure, heart rate, perspiration and digestion. If an autonomic nerve is
damaged, it may cause irregular heart rate, blood pressure, sweating, etc. Damage to
autonomic nerves can disrupt the signals between the brain and the autonomic nerve resulting
in pain. The symptoms depend on the type of nerve damaged and its location.
The common symptoms caused by an autonomic nerve damage include; difficulty in digestion,
sexual performance difficulties, dizziness, fainting, urinary problems, difficulty in exercise,
sluggish pupil reaction.
Autonomic nerve damage can be caused by a number of reasons, most common being certain
diseases and their treatments. Some of the major reasons of autonomic neuropathy are: nerve
damage, diabetes, chronic illness, cancer, infectious diseases, abnormal protein build-up,
inherited disorders, etc.
©OxySolution.com 11
Types Of Neuropathy
Neuropathy is a term used for peripheral neuropathy that involves nerve damage in the
peripheral nervous system. Neuropathy can be caused due to many underlying diseases and
factors. Some are inherited and some are caused by injury, and other diseases. When the
nerves in the peripheral nervous system are damaged, it causes pain and specific symptoms.
This nerve damage can be really painful and the area where the nerve is located gets affected
the most. Our peripheral nervous system involves the nerves that are located outside the brain
and the spinal cord. These nerves control our five major senses and damage to peripheral
nerves can cause problems in seeing, hearing, tasting, smelling, and feeling.
1. Mono Neuropathy
Mono neuropathy is a type of neuropathy that occurs when a nerve or group of nerves is
damaged due to an injury, fall, or accident. People suffering from mono neuropathy may feel
loss of sensation, lack of co-ordination, pain, weakness, muscle fatigue, numbness, loss of
reflexes, tingling and burning sensation and much more.
Mono neuropathy can sometimes get better with time but in many cases it needs to be treated
using latest treatment methods. Physiotherapy is one of the treatments of mono neuropathy
and almost all types of neuropathy. Physical exercise promotes muscle health and provides it
strength to resist the pain and weakness. If the damage to the nerves is severe, the doctors
might suggest operating on the nerve.
©OxySolution.com 12
2. Poly Neuropathy
Polyneuropathy is caused when many nerves in the peripheral nervous system get damaged.
Thus, damage to any of the nerves in the peripheral nervous system causes the same set of
symptoms.
In polyneuropathy, nerve damage is also caused by injury, disease, chronic illness, inherited
disease, auto-immune condition, infections, toxins, drugs, cancer, diabetes, etc. Extreme
damage to the nerves in polyneuropathy may result in liver failure, kidney failure, lung cancer,
vitamin B12 deficiency, thyroid gland dysfunction and much more.
Polyneuropathy causes damage to the motor nerves that are responsible for muscle
movement, sensory functions, and combined functions of these parts. In most cases of
polyneuropathy, only the sensation is affected.
Nerve damage in polyneuropathy can cause sharp pain, tingling and numbness, weakness, pins
and needles sensation. It also affects the involuntary functions of the body including heart rate,
blood pressure, digestion and urination.
2. Autonomic Neuropathy
Autonomic neuropathy is caused when nerve damage disrupts body functions that take place in
our body on a daily basis. Autonomic neuropathy involves the function of the heart, sweat
glands, urinary gland, blood vessels, pupils, and intestines.
The damaged nerves send out a weak signal from the brain and the spinal cord. The symptoms
of autonomic neuropathy gradually show up and take time to increase. Autonomic neuropathy
finds its place in people with drug and alcohol abuse, diabetes, tissue damage, infections,
multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, HIV, injury to the spinal cord, and nerve inflammation.
©OxySolution.com 13
People who are suffering from autonomic neuropathy may have digestive problems,
constipation, diarrhea, problems in bowel movement, vomiting, nausea, heart problems, blood
pressure, shortness of breath, urinary infections and problems, sweating, sexual problems,
weight loss and much more. The treatment of autonomic neuropathy usually involves
controlling of the appearing symptoms through medication or self-control.
©OxySolution.com 14
Nothing Nervous About The Nervous System
FUNCTION
The nervous system is a major part of the human body and it is further divided into two parts
known as the Central Nervous System (CNS) and the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS).
The CNS and PNS have their own functions to look after. The brain and the spinal cord come
under the CNS whereas PNS is a network of nerves that connects the entire body to the brain.
Our nervous system has to perform several complex functions including communicating,
controlling, regulating, coordinating, etc.
The nerves that are connected to the brain send and receive signals. This is what makes us
perform different tasks. Without these messages sent through the nerves, we will not be able
to do anything. In simple words, the nervous system is the main players in our body and any
damage to the nerves of the system causes many problems.
The nervous system is a very organized system. The messages are sent and received accurately
and allow us to do different activities. This information is carried by neurons that are a network
of cell. Our nervous system is not as complicated if we understand it part by part. Every part of
the nervous system performs its own duty.
©OxySolution.com 15
Structure Below is a diagram to help you understand the hierarchy of the nervous system.
1. Central Nervous System
The Central Nervous System has a more complex function and consists of brain and spinal cord.
All the processing of information is done in the CNS. The daily activities we perform including
moving things, seeing, hearing, and thinking are all carried out by the central nervous system.
So, whatever we do in our daily life is with the help of our central nervous system.
The CNS is undoubtedly the most important system of our body. From receiving to sending
information, it helps us carry out major activities. Apart from the brain and spinal cord, another
very important part of the central nervous system is the neurons. These neurons are like
messengers that send information from different parts of the body to the brain, similarly from
the brain to different parts of the body. It is a continuous exchange of information and the two
neurons responsible for it are motor neurons and sensory neurons.
Nervous
System
Central Peripheral
Brain
Spinal
Cord Autonomic
Somatic
Sympathetic
Para-
Sympathetic
©OxySolution.com 16
Brain
The brain holds the most importance in our body because it is responsible for carrying out
different functions, both inside and outside the body. Our brain is divided into three major
parts that are: The Forebrain, The Hindbrain, and The Brain Stem. Each of these parts has
important tasks to perform.
1. Forebrain
The forebrain is part of the brain that is responsible for carrying out major functions of our
body. The information that the forebrain receives is processed in the cerebral cortex. The
forebrain helps us in thinking, learning, speaking, coordination, producing, speculating, etc. We
perform these major functions because the neurons carry information from the forebrain to
different organs and parts in our body. The forebrain consists of thalamus and hypothalamus
that control the autonomic functions of our body.
©OxySolution.com 17
2. Hindbrain
Located in the posterior side of the brain, the hindbrain is a part of the brain that helps us in
movement, maintaining balance, equilibrium, and process sensory information. The hindbrain
consists of pons, cerebellum and medulla oblongata. Medulla oblongata is responsible for
handling major autonomic functions of the body including digestion, respiration, and heart rate
whereas pons and cerebellum maintains balance, equilibrium, movement, and helps in
processing some sensory information.
3. Brain Stem
Brainstem includes the midbrain and is like a connection between the forebrain and the
hindbrain. Brainstem controls motor functions that are visual and auditory. It also controls
major functions like heart rate, breathing, sleeping, etc.
Spinal Cord
An elongated grey and white tube like structure is the spinal cord that is responsible for
transmitting signals through neurons that control and coordinate reflexes, and carry
information. The spinal cord consists of a complex network of nerves that emerge from it.
These spinal nerves carry sensory impulses towards the brain. Also, these nerve impulses are
carried from the brain to the rest of the body. The function of the nerves is to carry signals from
one part of the body to another and when a nerve gets damaged, the weak signals are
transferred to the brain that causes pain and many other problems.
Neurons
The cells in a central nervous system consist of neurons. The two major parts of a nerve are
Axons and Dendrites. These are responsible for the transmission of information. Axons simply
carry the information away from the cell body to the various parts of the body whereas
dendrites are smaller than axons and carry information towards the cell body. Axons and
dendrites are both branched together to form nerves. Neurons are furthermore classified into
three types.
©OxySolution.com 18
1. Sensory Neurons
The signals that are transmitted to the brain are carried by sensory neurons. These neurons
help transfer the information to the brain which then helps us perform various activities.
2. Motor Neurons
The signals that are transmitted from the brain to the various parts of the body are carried by
motor neurons.
3. Inter Neurons
These neurons are responsible to carry signals between motor and sensory neurons.
2. Peripheral Nervous System
The peripheral nervous system is located outside the brain and the spinal cord. Its main
function is to connect the limbs and organs to the central nervous system. The peripheral
nervous system consists of nerves that are known as ganglia. Unlike the central nervous
system, the peripheral nervous system is exposed. It is not protected by a network of nerves
and a bone structure. That’s why the peripheral nervous system is prone to getting damaged
and infected. The peripheral nervous system has two major parts that are given below.
©OxySolution.com 19
1. Autonomic Nervous System
The automated functions of our body including heart rate, digestion, respiration, etc. are
carried out by the autonomic nervous system. Autonomic nervous system is part of the PNS
that is furthermore divided into two branches; sympathetic system and parasympathetic
system.
Sympathetic System
Sympathetic system is part of the autonomic nervous system that stimulates activities related
to fight-or-flight. It means that it is responsible for the stimulation of those activities that are
related to action. Our body needs to perform some actions and those actions depend on the
sympathetic system including increasing the heart rate, increasing the level of sugar, and other
activities that prepare the body to fight against different conditions.
Parasympathetic System
Parasympathetic nervous system is part of the autonomic nervous system that control normal
body functions. It means that the parasympathetic nervous system remains active all the time
and helps in functions like stimulation and secretion of saliva, etc
Somatic Nervous System
The somatic nervous system is part of the peripheral nervous system that controls voluntary
body functions and reflexes. In a somatic system, the nerves carry information to and from the
brain. A somatic nervous system also has two types of neurons that are responsible for the
transmission of important messages. These neurons are called motor neurons and sensory
neurons. The somatic system consists of 12 pairs of cranial nerves and 31 pairs of spinal nerves.
The primary function of the somatic nervous system is to connect the central nervous system to
the brain, spinal cord, organs, and skin. The information that these afferent neurons carry is
processed into the central nervous system where it is decoded and sent back to the specific
organs and muscles. The somatic nervous system also carries the information from the outside
world which is carried inside by our senses.
©OxySolution.com 20
This information is also carried to the central nervous system for appropriate action. Some
nerves in the somatic nervous system carry sensory neurons and some carry motor neurons.
Another important function of the somatic nervous system is to conduct immediate reflexes.
These reflexes occur in split seconds due to a sensory nerve pathway that is directly connected
to the central nervous system.
©OxySolution.com 21
“What, Why, How, When And Who” Of Nerve Pain
What Is Nerve Pain All About?
The nervous system is responsible for performing a number of functions and is made up of
many nerves. These nerves carry neurons that carry signals to and from the brain. So when a
nerve in any part of the body is affected, damaged or disrupted, the person feels excruciating
pain. This pain is so intense that it keeps us from thinking correctly and we are unable to
perform normally. Some of these nerves are responsible for voluntary body functions like
controlling the heart rate, digestion, etc., some are responsible for controlling the involuntary
functions and others are responsible to send information to your skin, muscles, and other
organs. Damage to any of these nerves can cause extreme pain and trouble.
What Causes The Pain?
Nerve pain occurs when a nerve is damaged or disrupted. Normally, the nerves in our nervous
system connect the brain and the spinal cord to the rest of the body and are responsible for
sending signals. These nerves carry signals of physical sensation and if one of these nerves is
damaged, it will not deliver the signal properly.
Nerve pain is also called peripheral neuropathy and it stops the nerves from functioning
normally. These nerves start to send abnormal signals to the brain causing pain even when
there is no reason for it. Nerve damage can occur from an injury, accident, infection, toxins,
drugs, medical treatment, stress, anxiety, alcohol addiction, systematic illness, or from an
inherited disorder.
©OxySolution.com 22
How Does It Occur?
Nerve pain can occur due to a variety of reasons. There are almost 100 reasons of possible
nerve damage. Nerve damage is extremely painful and there are many signs that a person with
nerve damage can sense. Many people define nerve pain as a sharp shooting sensation. There
are many types of sensations and pains that nerve damage causes. Some of the most common
symptoms are given below.
1. Tingling
2. Hot and cold sensation on the skin
3. Burning
4. Sweating
5. Weakness
6. Numbness
7. Prickling
8. Light headedness
9. Dry eyes and mouth
Nerve damage can take a person into another state of mind. The pain is so intense that the
person is unable to think properly. The area where the nerves are damaged becomes weak and
the muscles start to twitch. In extreme cases, nerve damage can cause paralysis and other
deadly diseases including heart problems and strokes.
Who Experiences It?
Nerve damage is common in people aged above 50. In older age, people are more susceptible
to fall ill and develop many health conditions. That’s why the sensitive nerves get damaged and
causes nerve pain. Nerve pain is very common in people with diabetes, liver infections,
Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis, lupus, bowel disease, myasthenia gravis, cancer, exposure to
chemotherapy, vitamin deficiency, Lyme disease, herpes, HIV, hepatitis C and much more.
©OxySolution.com 23
In many cases, nerve damage is also caused by anxiety or stressful situations. When a stressful
situation prevails for a longer time, it affects the nerves and as a result the nerve gets damaged.
The part of the body where the damaged nerve lies experiences different symptoms like
sweating, numbness, sharp pain, etc.
Noticeable Symptoms
1. Tachycardia
A normal adult heart beats 60 to 90 times every
minute. Tachycardia is a medical condition in
which the heart rate exceeds the normal rate.
This makes the heart work hard, which is
dangerous and can cause the heart to fail.
When the heart starts to beat at a faster pace,
there is a high chance of a stroke. A fast beating
heart can cause blood to flow less efficiently,
causing stress on the brain and other parts of
the body, especially the part where the
damaged nerve is located.
Tachycardia can also cause many symptoms that include dizziness, hypotension, panting,
sweating, light headedness, palpitations, fast pulse, and weakness. When a nerve is damaged,
there is a higher chance of heart rate getting out of control.
2. Urinary Problems
Urinary problems occur when there is nerve damage. The nerves carry messages and these
messages need to be transferred to the brain where the information gets processed and then
sent back to the specific organ or muscle to allow it to do its job. When the bladder is full, the
nerves notify the brain.
The nerves carry the message from the brain to either tighten or release the muscles. If the
nerves that will carry this message to the brain are damaged, there will be urinary problems.
Nerve damage can cause different types of urinary problems including an overactive bladder,
urine retention, and difficulty in holding urine due to muscle weakness.
©OxySolution.com 24
3. Sexual Problems
Never damage can cause sexual problems, especially erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. A study
conducted on men with impotence and ED revealed that most of them had nerve damage.
Nerve damage can restrict the blood flow to certain parts of the body. As explained earlier,
nerves of different parts of the body need efficient blood supply to work properly. That’s why
many people with nerve damage have a risk of getting paralyzed. Similarly, nerve damage can
cause ED due to problems in blood circulation. Sexual problems like ED occur when there is
damage to the peripheral nervous system.
4. Hypotension
Hypotension is a term used for an extremely low blood pressure just like hypertension is used
for high blood pressure condition. Damage to the nerves in the autonomic nervous system
causes hypotension.
The autonomic nervous system is responsible for carrying out
different body functions including circulation of blood,
controlling heart rate, liver functions, eye function, and all
those functions that are automatic. When a person’s blood
pressure drops, he/she feels dizziness and light-headedness.
This occurs mostly when a person with hypotension stands up.
If a nerve in the autonomous nervous system is damaged, the
circulation of blood becomes less effective. The heart pumps
less actively, resulting in low blood pressure. The damaged
nerve is unable to supply blood efficiently to the heart. A
person with nerve damage in the ANS is likely to suffer from
hypotension.
©OxySolution.com 25
Different Types Of Neurosis/Neuropathy/Neuralgia
Neurosis/neuropathy/neuralgia are all terms associated with nerve damage. When we talk
about neurosis, we are actually talking about non-psychotic mental illnesses that cause anxiety,
depression, stress, etc. The scientists of earlier times used this term for conflicts in the
unconscious mind.
Neuropathy has several types, and each type is based on the type of nerve damaged. Also, in
many cases it is defined and separated into types based on the disease that caused it. Within
the major sections of neuropathy, there are several branches that emerge into a specific kind.
Some of the most common neurosis conditions are given below.
Anxiety Neurosis
Anxiety neurosis is a condition in which people worry about an issue more than they should.
This stress on the mind creates problems in the nerve and damages it. Anxiety neurosis is quiet
common and it is usually caused by stress for a long period of time.
Damage to the nerves in anxiety neurosis causes muscle tension, sweating, shortness of breath,
palpitation, fatigue, nausea, digestion problems, etc. Anxiety is something that everyone
experiences but everyone’s level varies. A person that constantly worries about something
causes damage to his/her nerves.
Anxiety neurosis has a very intense impact on the brain and it also leads to constant worry and
fear of failing. People with anxiety neurosis are unable to perform at work, school, college, and
also have attitude problems. Anxiety neurosis causes sleep disorders and due to lack of sleep,
people suffering from anxiety neurosis feel irritated most of the time.
Extreme anxiety can make people do things that they normally wouldn’t and when someone is
at the peak of anxiety neurosis, he/she is more likely to cause damage to himself/herself.
©OxySolution.com 26
Agoraphobia
Agoraphobia is a kind of anxiety neurosis in which people suffering from it have a fear of
escaping from certain places and situations. When anxiety neurosis reaches a greater level, a
person might feel fearful of people, places, things, tasks, etc. It is more like a panic disorder and
people suffering from it panic in public places.
Such people often stay at home because they don’t want to be around people. People suffering
from agoraphobia are comfortable with friends and family members but whenever left alone,
they tend to panic and be stressed out. People who have faced extreme panic and/or high
stress situations in the past may suffer from Agoraphobia.
Such a person relates every situation with it and starts to feel anxious when he/she feels stuck
somewhere. The fear can be for a task that a person wants to do but backs out or quits because
he/she thinks he/she will fail. Nerve damage is seen to cause agoraphobia in many people and
these people find it hard to control themselves.
When a person with agoraphobia is in a situation where he/she feels panic or anxiety, this
person will have symptoms like dizziness, stomach problems, nausea, shortness of breath,
fainting, chest pains and much more. People with agoraphobia can be treated with medicines
and the most effective treatment for it is psychotherapy. Psychotherapy conducted on people
with agoraphobia is usually combined with cognitive behavioral therapy.
Panic
Panic disorder is also caused by nerve damage. Panic disorder and agoraphobia are almost
similar and they have the same symptoms as well. People suffering from a panic disorder have
fear of confined or crowded spaces, certain places where they find it hard to exit, etc. Panic
disorder is usually caused after a panic attack. In this disorder, a person could feel stressed and
find it hard to maintain self-control.
The person suffering from panic disorder will have the following symptoms; shortness of
breath, hypertension, dizziness, excessive sweating, stomach ache, chills, hot flashes, trembling,
feeling of choking, etc. Panic attacks are also caused in situations where a person feels nervous.
©OxySolution.com 27
These attacks can sometimes be very dangerous as the
person experiencing panic loses control over
himself/herself. When a nerve is damaged, disrupted
signals from the neurons in the nerves reach the brain
which causes problems like panic and anxiety. Panic
disorder can be treated with psychotherapy and anti-
depressants. Medical experts and psychologists prefer
treating patients by training them to cope with panicky
situations.
Postherpetic Neuralgia
Postherpetic neuralgia is triggered by shingles which is caused by the chickenpox virus.
Postherpetic neuralgia is a rash and it is very painful. In most of the cases, shingles disappear
within a few days but if the rash stays for a long time, it causes damage to the nerve cells and
the skin.
That’s why it is associated with nerve damage conditions. Just as chickenpox are likely to
appear at a younger age, shingles appear in people aged 50 and above. Shingles is not entirely
treatable but medicinal experts have developed drugs to ease the pain and the symptoms. The
earlier you get treated, the better are your chances of getting rid of the rash.
There are different types of treatments for postherpetic neuralgia including anti-depressants,
itch cream, and painkillers. The pain caused by postherpetic neuralgia is like a burning sensation
and it is so severe that it disturbs the sleep and appetite of a person suffering from it.
Phantom Limb Pain
Phantom limb pain is a serious condition when a person whose limb has been amputated feels
pain in that area. Nerves on the area of an amputated limb start to send pain signals to the
brain. The brain acts on the signals it receives. That’s why even if the limb is no longer there,
the pain can be felt.
A person with phantom limb pain feels extreme pain, hot and cold sensations, tingling, and
cramping in that area. Phantom limb pain that persists for more than six months is hard to be
treated. Even with medicinal treatment, phantom limb pain doesn’t entirely go away and a
person still feels little pain.
©OxySolution.com 28
There are a number of ways through which phantom limb pain can be treated including heat
therapy, surgery, physiotherapy, massage, neurostimulation, anti-depressant drugs, muscle
relaxing therapy, and electrical therapy.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which the carpal tunnel located on the side of your
wrist gets damaged. People suffering from this condition may feel numbness, tingling and a
variety of other symptoms in the hand, wrist and arm.
Carpal tunnel syndrome can be caused by damage to the hand, disease, illness, anatomy of
your wrist, and certain underlying causes. When the nerve that is protected by the carpal
tunnel is compressed, a person feels numbness and tingling feeling. The hand also gets sweaty,
painful and the muscles become weak.
In carpal tunnel syndrome, the hand function is greatly affected. The nerve that controls the
function of your fingers and hands are affected and as a result you find it hard to hold objects.
Another common symptom of the carpal tunnel syndrome is the feeling of numbness and
tingling. This feeling often extends from the hand to the arms.
The hand may also tremble due to muscle weakness. If left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome
can cause a lot of problems and a person suffering from it may find it hard to maintain a healthy
lifestyle.
There is a high risk of the nerve getting damaged if the condition is not treated in the early
stage. Carpal tunnel syndrome can be treated with the help of medicines, corticosteroids, wrist
splinting, anti-inflammatory drugs, and surgery.
Sciatica
Sciatica is a pain condition that is caused by damage to the sciatic nerve extending from the
lower back to buttocks, hips and both legs. Sciatica usually affects one side of the lower body
and is caused by a herniated disc in your spine, bone overgrowth, sleeping on a soft mattress,
sitting or lying in a wrong posture, compressed vertebrae, diabetes, etc.
Sciatica is very painful and makes a person suffer. The pain in most cases is severe that leads to
problem in sleeping and eating. When the sciatic nerve is compressed or damaged, the pain is
irritating and discomforting.
©OxySolution.com 29
Many people with sciatica often feel numbness and tingling in the affected limb or area. If the
damage to the sciatic nerve is severe and one does not get it treated in time, the pain extends
to the foot and toe as well. Sciatic pain is also caused by an injury or accident that may have
caused damage to the sciatic nerve. Take for example a man that works in an IT company.
He spends 9 hours daily sitting in a chair that is not comfortable. This person is more likely to
damage his sciatic nerve. Many doctors treat sciatica with anti-inflammatory drugs, physical
therapy, steroids, muscle relaxants, anti-depressants and in severe cases with the help of
surgery. If a person does not get it treated, he/she might incur bowel dysfunction.
Trigeminal Neuralgia
The trigeminal nerve is responsible for facial and motor functions like chewing, biting, etc.
When this nerve is damaged, a sharp sensation of pain can be felt and this condition is known
as trigeminal neuralgia.
The pain can be felt when brushing teeth,
touching the face, applying anything on the
face, chewing a gum, and much more. The
trigeminal nerve connects the face and the
head and damage to it can cause severe pain.
People suffering from trigeminal neuralgia
can feel the pain in the forehead, face, gums,
jaws, brain, and area around the eyes. An
MRI can help find the cause of trigeminal
neuralgia.
In some people, the pain occurs on a single side of the face and in others, it occurs on both
sides at the same time. This pain is declared as one of the most painful conditions. Trigeminal
neuralgia can be treated with the help of drugs, painkillers, surgery, meditation, acupuncture,
chiropractic, etc. This type of nerve damage is more common in women than in men.
©OxySolution.com 30
Diabetic Neuropathy
People suffering from diabetes have extremely high blood sugar levels. This condition causes
extreme damage to the nerves and the nerves stop giving pain signals to the brain.
Subsequently, injuries and infections are extremely harmful for diabetic patients.
That’s why people with diabetes are asked to stay safe from injuries because it can cause
damage to the nerves, which may result in amputation. In diabetic neuropathy, the parts of the
body that gets affected the most are feet and legs. Diabetic neuropathy is not as painful as
other types of neuropathy and may only cause light pain, numbness, burning sensation, and
tingling in the legs and foot.
People suffering from diabetic neuropathy are suggested to be extra careful towards their skin
and feet. Regular skin and foot care treatments eliminate the risk of infections and injuries.
Diabetic neuropathy is of four types – focal, proximal, peripheral, and autonomic. Each type of
diabetic neuropathy has a different set of symptoms.
Central Pain Syndrome
Central Pain Syndrome is actually another word used for nerve pain as it occurs due to damage
to the brainstem, brain, and spinal cord, which together form the CNS. Central Pain Syndrome is
painful and is caused by a number of conditions including amputation, injury, Parkinson’s
disease, spinal cord trauma, multiple sclerosis, stroke, etc.
The pain varies depending upon the area that is damaged and is often described as a burning
feeling. Central Pain Syndrome is common in people that live in colder areas. People suffering
from Central Pain Syndrome are usually sensitive to touch, emotions, temperature, and
movement. The areas that get most affected by Central Pain Syndrome are the hands and feet.
People with CPS might feel painful sensations and lose the feeling of touch in the affected parts.
Many heart patients develop CPS as it usually occurs after a stroke. The pain can be reduced by
using pain medication but not everyone reacts in the same way to these medicines. There is no
solid treatment for CPS but the pain can be reduced by having anti-depressants that reduce the
stress level and puts the mind at peace. Stress has a major role in CPS as it is one of the major
reasons of damage to the CNS.
©OxySolution.com 31
Pudendal Neuralgia
A problem in the pudendal nerve or damage to it can cause pudendal neuralgia. Pudendal
nerve that runs through your pelvic region, urethra, anus and perineum can be harmed and
causes pain. When the areas near the pelvis get affected, pudendal neuralgia occurs. Pudendal
neuralgia can be found in both men and women. The pain from pudendal nerve dysfunction
occurs when a person sits.
The symptoms can vary from itching, hot and cold sensation, numbness, feeling of a lump in the
genital area, painful intercourse, etc. There are several underlying causes of pudendal neuralgia
which are; trauma or damage to the nerve due to an accident or fall, sitting for long hours,
carpel tunnel syndrome, infection, autoimmune illness, nerve entrapment, nerve displacement,
any kind of surgery.
Pudendal neuralgia can be treated if it hasn’t moved to the worst stage. If left un-treated, the
pain can worsen with time and can take up permanent residence. Pudendal neuralgia can be
treated with physical therapy which involves muscle strengthening. Surgery is another
treatment option for pudendal neuralgia but it should be your last resort. Some doctors also
suggest Botox and medication to treat pudendal neuralgia.
©OxySolution.com 32
Diagnosing The Nerve Pain
Diagnostic tests play an important role in treating any kind of condition or disease. Nerve pain
diagnosis can be made easily with the help of a physician. There is a vast variety of diagnostic
tests and techniques used by physicians to detect a nerve damage that is causing the pain. Due
to the advancement in technology, a damaged nerve can be detected with tests that show
nerve activity in real time. Diagnosing neurosis also depends upon the symptoms of a patient.
Some of the ways through which nerve damage can be detected are given below.
Patient’s History
During the process of diagnosing nerve pain, it is essential that medical professionals and
physicians ask about patient’s history. When a patient visits a physician, it is asked to provide
his/her medical history. This history includes all the tests and medications the patient had been
prescribed. This helps experts get a direction for their study and diagnosis. Another important
part of a patient’s history includes asking question to the patient.
When a patient visits a physician or a medical professional for the diagnosis of nerve damage,
he/she should be asked question that would explain the problem well. This is the easiest way of
getting on to a result because the symptoms that a person with nerve damage has. Patient’s
history should be considered a vital part of the diagnosing process. Once a medical professional
has all the information about the patient, he/she can easily conduct the relevant test and find
out about the problem.
©OxySolution.com 33
Physical Examination
Physical examination is another important step in the diagnosis process. A patient who comes
to a doctor for diagnosis of nerve damage will go through a series of physical tests, all based on
neurological examination. A neurological exam is a set of different tests done physically by your
doctor.
These tests include examination of motor and sensory nerves, cranial nerves, coordination,
reflexes, movement, mental status, blood flow to the brain and much more. These simple
examination techniques allow a professional to get closer to the problem and diagnose the
exact nerve that is damaged.
Electromyography
First of all, when a patient with nerve pain approaches a doctor, he/she is put onto a mental
examination. In this examination, the doctor asks a series of questions from the patient. The
doctor might also ask the patient to do some tasks to get to know the mental state of the
patient. The most common techniques for a mental exam are:
Recalling specific names, objects, etc.
Copying shapes
Repeat a list
Memory check
Abstract thinking
Naming simple objects and things
Asking patients about their mood.
Analyzing different moods and feelings
Asking about depression and thoughts of suicide
These techniques and tests allow a doctor to analyze a patient on the basis of his/her score. All
of the test and questions are based on the symptoms of a person with nerve pain/damage.
©OxySolution.com 34
Nerve Function Tests
Different nerves are responsible for different functions. Each group of nerves hold important
body functions, that’s why testing their efficiency and reaction can help medical experts
diagnose a damaged nerve. There are three types of nerve function tests that include; cranial,
motor, and sensory.
Motor Nerves
Motor nerves are responsible for voluntary body functions like movement of hands, legs, etc.
Doctors conduct a motor nerve test to determine whether the damage is on a motor nerve or
not. The impulses from motor nerves are carried to the brain and the spinal cord. A person with
damage to motor nerves might have weak muscles that can easily be identified by his/her
movement.
A doctor might ask the patient to stand and walk to see if any muscle is showing signs of
weakness. The doctors also look at other factors that are caused by damage to the motor
nerves. This nerve examination is only conducted after the patient’s history and symptoms have
been noted down. If the patient complains about twitching of a muscle, the doctor will conduct
a motor nerve exam to confirm it.
This test will include a series of examinations that a doctor will conduct on a patient including
checking muscle weakness, increase in muscle size, increase or decrease in muscle tone, muscle
twitching, and tremor. A doctor might check muscle strength by asking to pull and push an
object or by applying force. Muscle movement is tested by asking the patient to relax
completely and checking movement in any muscle.
Sensory Nerves
Sensory nerves are responsible for carrying bodily sensations to the brain including hot and cold
sensations, pain, touch, vibration, etc. The doctors check for damage in the activity of the brain
and spinal cord related to sensory functions. If a person with nerve pain comes for a check-up, a
doctor might test the numb body part or area with the help of a pin. The doctors check if the
patient can feel sharp and smooth surfaces. Similarly, doctors conduct tests for hot and cold
sensation and vibration on a particular part of the body that is numb or affected.
©OxySolution.com 35
Cranial Nerves
A cranial nerve is damaged due to an illness, injury, trauma, impaired blood flow, or tumor. The
nerve damage can cause harm to the functions of nose, ears, eyes, face, throat, tongue,
shoulders and other organs. To identify damage to the cranial nerves, doctors conduct tests
that will show the signs of damage. For a woman that has weak smelling senses, the doctor
might test her by asking her to smell a certain fragrance.
Electromyography
For a nerve damage to be diagnosed, many doctors use electromyography to record the activity
of the muscles. Our muscles send out electrical signal upon movement. To track the electric
current, electromyography is conducted. Abnormal electrical signals from the muscles may
indicate that there is a problem. Muscle weakness occurs due to nerve damage and EMG helps
find out the weakness point.
An EMG is conducted with the help of a needle that is inserted in various parts of the body and
the patient is asked to move a particular part of the body, for example legs. Due to the activity
or muscle movement, an electrical wave is generated, which reveals information about the
particular muscle movement and response. Weak muscles might send out abnormal electrical
waves that can be detected by the wave formation.
X-Ray
An x-ray of the skull, chest or any other affected area is conducted
when a patient comes in with nerve damage. X-rays do not show
tissues of the body but they show the bones. With the help of x-ray,
doctors can point out a fracture or problem in the structure. This is
one of the most common procedures which is conducted for
diagnosis of nerve damage. Radiography is a common type of x-ray
procedure but there are several new ways with which doctor’s can
see damaged tissues and ligaments.
©OxySolution.com 36
Nerve Conduction Test
A nerve conduction test is performed to find damaged nerves. This is a more detailed test in
which not only the nerves are tested but the ranches that spread out of these nerves are
checked. A nerve conduction test is very similar to an EMG. In both the tests, an electrical signal
is passed through a diode and into the body. In this test, instead of needles acting as diodes,
small metal discs are attached at various parts of the body using a tape or paste. The result of
this test shows how efficiently a muscle reacts by noting the electrical signals from the muscles.
Nerve damage can be diagnosed using many other tests and procedures. Some of the other
diagnosis techniques are:
1. Discography
2. Computed tomography
3. Biopsy
4. Angiography
5. Brain scans
6. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis
7. Electroencephalography
8. CT scan
9. Electronystagmography
10. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
11. Polysomnogram
12. Ultrasound
13. Thermography
©OxySolution.com 37
Freeing Yourself From Nerve Pain
Nerve pain occurs due to a number of causes. Some have this pain because of an illness, and
some have it as a reaction to medication. Either way, nerve pain can be very painful and can put
anyone into a miserable state. A damaged nerve sends out abnormal signals to the brain. As a
result, the pain is felt. Peripheral neuropathy is very common and totally treatable.
The pain might not go away completely, but with the help of different treatments it is said to
lower down the pain. Nerve damage can occur due to illness, injury, drug reaction, sclerosis,
diabetes, vitamin deficiency, cancer, chemotherapy, accident, etc. It is suggested that people
who are suffering from nerve pain consult a doctor and find out treatment options as soon as
possible. If the nerve damage is left untreated, it is most likely to intensify with time.
Holistic Pain Relief Remedies
Healthy Eating Habits
When we talk about natural treatment options, we are actually talking about harmless ways of
getting rid of a certain illness. People with nerve pain have a variety of treatment options. Most
of the natural remedies for nerve pain revolve around healthy living. People who have nerve
pain should be careful of their diet. They should not eat foods that may elevate the pain. If your
nerve is damaged due to diabetes, vitamin deficiency, etc, you can make a habit of eating foods
that can ease the pain.
Vitamin C Foods
Consuming vitamin C rich foods can ease the pain caused by nerve damage. Foods rich in
vitamin C are: bell peppers, chili peppers, kale, papaya, oranges, limes, Brussels sprouts,
tomatoes, cherries, strawberries, thyme, etc.
©OxySolution.com 38
Vitamin B12 Foods
Nerve damage occurs when the protective coat of a nerve is damaged or exposed. This
protective layer can be healed by eating foods rich in vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 rich foods are:
mostly sea food including sardines, shrimp, scallops, snapper, venison and other foods including
beef, lamb loin, etc. Find foods with high amount of Vitamin B12 and make a habit of
consuming them in great quantity.
Water
Water is an essential part of our day to day life and we need to consume a lot of water to stay
healthy, fit and alert. Similarly, people with neuropathic pain should consume a fairly good
amount of water to stay fit. Nerve damage can intensify if a person consumes a lesser amount
of water. Drinking water excessively can eliminate the chances of a muscle spasm and poor
blood flow.
Anti-Oxidant Foods
People with neuropathic pain have damaged nerve tissues that can be healed by consuming
food rich with anti-oxidants. Anti-oxidant foods can help heal the damaged nerve tissue and
protect a person from the risk of different cancers and diseases. Foods packed with anti-
oxidants are: blueberries, strawberries, red grapes, pomegranate, garlic, carrots, spinach,
broccoli, green tea, dark chocolate, tomatoes, etc.
Anti-Inflammatory Foods
When our body’s immune system works abnormally, it starts to attack its own tissues instead of
attacking bacteria and foreign bodies. As a result, inflammation occurs and causes damage to
nerves and extreme pain. This damage can be healed by consuming foods rich in omega3.
Foods that have excess amount of omega3 fatty acids are: soybeans, shrimp, cold water fishes,
flaxseeds, walnuts, etc.
©OxySolution.com 39
Capsaicin
Capsaicin is a cream like substance that is extracted from chili peppers. This cream can be
applied to the skin of an affected area or muscle. Capsaicin is most commonly used for the
treatment of shingles. This creamy extract relieves pain when applied on a patch of skin.
Similarly many people use botanical oils derived from herbs for pain relief.
Relaxation And Meditation
Nerve pain or any other type of neuropathy can be treated to an extent using natural
ingredients and remedies. The pain caused by a damaged nerve is so intense that it creates
problem in our regular activities. Relaxation, meditation and even yoga can help ease the pain.
Many doctors and psychiatrists ask their patients to take part in yoga or have some time alone
to relax and to relieve stress.
Nerve pain is majorly caused by stress and anxiety. This stress can be due to any reason and can
be treated by eliminating stressful thoughts from the mind. The relationship between the mind
and the body is enhanced by relaxation therapies. Relaxation therapy can be of several types
including hypnosis.
Hypnosis is a technique that puts the mind away from stress by distracting it. That’s why many
doctors ask their patients to distract themselves when they are having a painful episode.
Therapists make use of pleasant thoughts to distract a patient’s mind from stress and tensions.
In meditation, therapists also ask the patient to repeat certain words or sentences known as
‘mantra’. Meditation and relaxing therapies are so effective that they can ease the pain and
boost confidence in many people with nerve pain.
Alternative Pain Relief Measures
Nerve pain or neuropathic pain cannot completely vanish out of anyone’s life. There are some
natural ways to deal with it and some alternative ways with which people suffering from nerve
pain can lower down the intensity of the pain. There are a number of alternative pain relief
remedies including the most prominent ones given below.
©OxySolution.com 40
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is very effective for people with nerve pain. It helps in muscle movement,
balance, joint stiffness, motion limitations and helps relieve pain, numbness, weakness,
hypersensitivity and much more. Many doctors and medical experts believe that physical
therapy can improve the muscles and make the body stronger which eases the pain caused by
nerve damage.
Exercise helps stimulate the mind and the body. It puts our strength in the right place and helps
us fight with our weaknesses. Physiotherapists make use of all the equipment and technology
available to them including shock therapy, hot and cold therapy, etc. Different therapies along
with exercise help relieve neuropathic pain. Some of the most common physical therapy
procedures are:
1. Functional activities
2. Electrical stimulation
3. Thermal modalities
4. Soft tissue techniques
5. Therapeutic exercise
6. Vibration platforms
7. Ultrasound
8. Near infrared phototherapy
9. Spinal and peripheral mobilization
10. Balance systems and force plates
Massage Therapy
Painful muscle spasms caused by neuropathy can be relieved with help of massage therapy.
Massage therapies can either completely relieve the pain or intensify it in some cases. Many
people with neuropathic pain strengthen their muscles with help of massage therapy. Massage
therapy works on the affected area and muscle. Massage therapies are also said to have a
soothing affect on people. These therapies involve the patients and release tension from their
minds.
©OxySolution.com 41
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese technique of treating peripheral neuropathy. People
suffering from peripheral neuropathy experience a variety of symptoms including numbness,
pins and needles sensation, hot and cold sensation, and much more. Acupuncture is a process
that helps restore blood flow in the damaged or pinched nerves. It makes the blood flow
efficient and eases the pain. Acupuncture targets the affected organs and body parts with the
help of needles that are inserted at different stimulation points in the body.
Counseling
Another therapy suggested for nerve pain is counseling. This usually comes at a later stage
when people suffering from extreme chronic pain are addicted to pain killers. Pain relief
medicines are part of the nerve pain treatment and many medical professionals prescribe
them. These medicines sometimes work but they don’t make the pain go away completely.
That’s why when patients get a short time solution to their pain; they start to take pain
medicines on a regular basis. For such people, many doctors prefer counseling or group therapy
sessions so that they could get their minds off the pain killers. Many counselors promote
physical therapy, yoga and meditation to such patients.
Anti-Depressants/Anticonvulsants/Pain Relief Drugs
People suffering from nerve pain have a hard time dealing with the pain. The pain is
excruciating and many doctors suggest pain relieve medicines as the first treatment option.
Many medical experts use anticonvulsants, anti-depressants, and pain relief drugs to lower the
intensity of the pain, though medicines and pain killers might not be a final treatment option
and everyone reacts to drugs differently. Some people with peripheral neuropathy got hold of
their condition with the help of prescription drugs, while others undergo a continuous
treatment with no solid result.
Anti-depressants and pain relief medicines can have numerous side-effects including low blood
pressure, an upset stomach, dizziness, blurred vision, etc. Treating nerve pain with prescription
medicines can make the patient addicted to them. That’s why it is important for medical
professionals to study their effects and keep the drug treatment for a short period of time. As
neuropathy is a condition that is directly associated with depression and anxiety, that’s why
many doctors and experts choose anti-depressants for treatment of the pain.
©OxySolution.com 42
Traditional Pain Relief Medicines
Other than prescription drugs, there are many traditional pain relief medicines available in the
market. Many people with chronic pain do not go directly for prescription medicines because
these medicines have numerous side-effects. There are different creams and gels in the market
that can be applied to the affected area or the part where the pain occurs. These medicines
help soothe the pain and provide comfort without any risk. Many people consume vitamin
enriched supplements to control nerve pain.
Psychological Treatments
Many medical experts connect neuropathic pain to psychology. They say that the underlying
cause of nerve pain is associated with psychological conditions such as trauma, depression,
anxiety, stress, and tension. These mental states can make the pain worse sometimes and
nerve pain is rooted towards these conditions. Treating a nerve pain patient with individual
therapies, coping therapies, yoga, meditation, relaxation, hypnosis, etc, are all part of
psychological treatment process. These therapies and treatment methods focus on making a
person feel happy and content. Therapists try to engage patients’ mind towards another task or
thing so that they do not feel pain. Cognitive behavioral therapy and pain management
programs help nerve pain patients cope with pain and clear their mind from anxiety and
depression.
©OxySolution.com 43
Latest Findings And Conclusion
Millions of people in the world suffer from chronic pain caused by nerve damage. But there are
no solid treatment procedures for neuropathy. People with chronic pain have tried pain
medication, surgery, alternative pain relief methods, physiotherapy, psycho therapy and much
more but they find themselves helpless. Nerve pain is an extremely painful condition that
interrupts with a person’s day to day life. This pain is so severe that it often keeps a person’s
mind under great stress.
Coping with nerve pain is not an easy task that’s why many researchers, medical experts, and
scientists are investing their time and effort into finding solution to neuropathy and the
diseases that follow with it. The advancement in medical equipment and technology has made
it easier for experts to get onto a lead and find ways in which neuropathic pain can be treated
completely. Some of the prominent and latest findings and research by scientists, doctors and
experts are given below.
Protein Lrp1
A latest study by a neuroscientist Wendy Campana, who is a PhD, associate professor in UC San
Diego's Department of Anesthesiology suggests that a protein in Schwann cells present in
peripheral nerves is responsible for healing the damaged nerves. This key protein is known as
LRP1 which normalizes the interaction between the Schwann cells and the axon.
Schwann cells and axons interact to heal a damaged nerve and LRP1 has been proven to
improve the regeneration of damaged nerve cells. A capsule containing LRP1 protein will help
heal damaged nerves and may also completely treat peripheral neuropathy.
©OxySolution.com 44
Plastic Surgery
A recent study by ASPS Member Surgeon Bahman Guyuron suggests that migraine from nerve
damage can be treated with the help of plastic surgery. The myelin sheath is a protective layer
around the nerve fiber and damage or exposed myelin sheath causes nerve problems and
migraine.
Take for example a window that is cracked and the insulation on it is damaged. Cold air in the
winter will enter the house making the indoor environment chilly. Similarly, myelin is an
insulation layer or a protective sheet that keeps the cranial nerves intact. It is usually damaged
by the surrounding structure and blood vessels causing chronic pain conditions and severe
headaches.
Dr. Bahman Guyuron suggests that a cosmetic surgery to remove little muscles around the
cranial nerves or a forehead lifting procedure will help improve the headaches. The cosmetic
surgery will repair the damaged myelin layer, helping the nerves stay intact and harmless to the
surroundings.
Lkb1 Gene
Another study conducted by scientists from Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center
suggests that with the help of a tumor compressing gene called LKB1, the damage to the
protective coating of the nerves can be regenerated.
Myelin, which is a protective layer on the nerve cells, is made up of high levels of lipids. These
lipids are made up of citric acid, which is formed in mitochondria. The myelin sheath will be
perfect if the citric acid is produced effectively in mitochondria through a metabolic process
called critical metabolic enzyme citrate synthase. LKB1 gene is said to improve the metabolic
rate of the cells and help them create a thick myelin layer for protection of the nerves.
The study was conducted on a lab mice and deficiency of LKB1 genes resulted in a poor shift
from glycolytic to mitochondrial metabolism that caused various symptoms of extreme nerve
damage. For a nerve to stay intact, the myelin sheath should not be thin or else it will get
damaged causing peripheral neuropathy, stroke, neurological disorders, hind limb dysfunction,
muscle atrophy, and pre-mature death (as noted in the mice).
©OxySolution.com 45
Enzyme Isolation
Neuroscientist Gerald Zamponi and his team at the University of Calgary’s Hotchkiss Brain
Institute conducted a research to find a solution to nerve pain caused by peripheral
neuropathy. They say that the painful sensations are all related to the brain and the nerve
impulses sent to the brain by the affected parts of the body. These impulses travel through a
calcium channel to the brain causing chronic pain. Zamponi, along with his colleagues,
suggested that this communication between the calcium channel and the enzymes can be
disrupted by stopping the right molecule. The research is still in process as Zamponi and his
friends are trying to pick out the exact molecules that communicate information and once they
find it, they will isolate it and make a drug out of it. This drug will improve painful conditions
that occur due to neuropathy.
Our nervous system is huge and performs various functions. Damage to the nerves in our
nervous system causes nerve pain, which can be treated by finding the solution within our
system. Scientists and experts are working day and night to find a clue that would help alleviate
and cure the problems faced by neuropathic patients.
With the help of technology, innovation, advancement, and education, finding solutions to
problems like nerve pain is made easy. Nerve pain messes up with our natural system and
makes us weak.
By adopting healthy habits, worrying less, and exercising more, we can reduce the pain and live
a normal life.