By Neuropathic pain, also referred to as nerve pain, is a painful condition which when not treated early can be quite chronic. Nerve pain can be caused by several factors from an injury, infection or underlying disease. For people suffering from chronic neuropathic pain, the jabbing pain can flare up at any time without being triggered by any event or injury. On such occasions, the body just sends burning pain signals straight to your brain unprompted. The shooting pain can either be constant or occur intermittently. Some people might also experience numbness or a loss of sensation.
Nerve pain which is progressive, especially if you do not find the root cause and treat can impair your health. As it progresses far away from the brain and spinal cord all the way to your hands and feet and eventually spreads backward to your arms and legs, it will not only affect your health but also treating it might cost more. You can get appropriate treatment which will halt or reverse the progression when you consult a specialist. Find out more about nerve pain and its treatment at https://www.neuropathyhelp.co/. But, if you’ve ever asked yourself, “Can nerve pain be prevented?” Below are prevention guidelines and steps that can prevent or delay further damage as well as and lessen your symptoms.
Maintain your blood sugar levels
Always monitor and maintain your blood sugar levels, especially if you are diabetic to help keep them in your target range. This is possible through engaging in physical activity, eating the right meals and taking your medications. Your blood sugar levels can either be monitored using a blood glucose meter for your day-to-day care. You can also get an A1C test to find out your average blood sugar. By checking your blood sugar levels this will alert you in case you might be diabetic enabling you to develop a care plan that is necessary.
Eat a balanced diet
Always eat a balanced, low-fat diet especially if you suffer from high blood pressure. Your meals must contain ample sources of vitamins B6, B12, fresh fruits, whole grains, vegetables as well as folate to protect the nervous system.
Hydrate your body
Prevent dehydration by drinking plenty of water and other fluids, especially during hot weather.
Avoid drinking caffeinated drinks like coffee and colas which can affect sleep as well as dehydrate your body.
Exercise regularly
Incorporate some form of exercise or physical activities into your routine. But, be careful with the exercises you do in case you have an underlying condition. If you are not sure which exercises to do, talk to your doctor to get the right exercise plan since some exercises might not be safe for people with neuropathy.
Relax
Relax and get plenty of rest to help your body get back to a properly functioning state of being.
Treat underlying conditions
Some health conditions may limit the nervous system from functioning properly. If you have any underlying conditions, get treatment right away. This can help prevent the condition from becoming more severe causing you problems later on. For example, a foot infection or injury that is treated early can help prevent nerve pain or even amputation.
Check your body parts
Body parts such as your feet are often strained on a day to day basis. It’s therefore important to check them every day. You can use a mirror to check the soles of your feet and your hands to feel them for signs of bumps, sores, cuts, hot or cold spots, or dry skin. Corns, blisters, swelling, red areas, and toenail infections should also be checked.
Always protect your feet by washing them using warm water and dry them carefully afterward. Afterward, keep them moisturized by applying lotion on your skin. Wear shoes that fit and socks whenever it’s cold. For those with foot problems, find out if you can get special shoes.
Do not use alcohol or illegal drugs
Alcohol, illegal drugs, and tobacco products can affect functioning after long use. Do not smoke and avoid overusing medicines not prescribed by your doctor. Overuse of medicines can cause nervous system problems mostly in older adults.
If you are under medication, keep track of your medication intake on a notebook or calendar and follow the prescription. You can also use a medicine box to help you remember which and when to take your medications each day.
Protect yourself from injuries
Protect yourself from injuries and falls which can lead to the development of nerve pain.
You need to keep your body and nervous system healthy to reduce the potential risks for neuropathic pain. The extensive damage caused by nerve pain, especially if you suffer from other conditions like diabetes, HIV, multiple sclerosis, shingles, vitamin deficiencies, cancer, stroke, and cancer treatments can worsen your health. Always try and prevent any possibility of triggering nerve pain, but if you notice any symptoms of neuropathy always consult your doctor.
