Peripheral Neuropathies Q&A

What are peripheral neuropathies?

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition in which nerve damage causes numbness, pain, and other unpleasant symptoms, often in your hands and feet. It occurs when your peripheral nervous system, which sends information from your brain and spinal cord to the rest of your body, gets damaged. Diabetes is a common cause of peripheral neuropathies.

What are the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy?

Common symptoms associated with peripheral neuropathies include:

• Numbness

• Prickling or tingling

• Jabbing or burning pain

• Touch sensitivity

• Muscle weakness

• Lack of coordination

• Pain in your hands or feet

• Heat intolerance

• Excessive sweating

• Digestive, bladder, or bowel problems

Complications associated with peripheral neuropathies might include skin trauma, infections, and frequent falls. Seeking treatment can reduce symptoms and may help prevent disease progression.

What are the risk factors for peripheral neuropathies?

Certain risk factors increase your chance of developing peripheral neuropathies. Examples include alcohol abuse, diabetes, vitamin B deficiencies, infections, and autoimmune diseases. Toxin exposure, liver, thyroid, or kidney disorders, repetitive motions, and a family history of neuropathies can also boost your risk.

How is peripheral neuropathy diagnosed?

To diagnose peripheral neuropathy, your doctor discusses your symptoms and medical history. They complete a physical exam and might have you undergo blood tests, urine tests, a neurological exam, imaging tests, nerve function testing, and nerve or skin biopsies.

What are traditional peripheral neuropathy treatments?

Common traditional treatments for peripheral neuropathies include taking medications, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes. Better diabetes management, taking care of your feet, getting regular exercise, and eating healthy foods can help. Avoid smoking and drinking excessive amounts of alcohol.

How does medical marijuana help with peripheral neuropathies?

Texas THC Doctor is part of the Texas Compassionate Use Program for medical marijuana. The expert medical team is registered through the Texas Compassionate Use Registry, allowing them to legally prescribe medical cannabis and CBD to you if you have peripheral neuropathy and qualify.

Medical cannabis can offer you relief from inflammation, nerve pain, and other unpleasant symptoms. It may also help you get a better night’s sleep. Texas THC Doctor personalizes each treatment to give you the best outcome and a better quality of life.

If you experience unpleasant symptoms associated with peripheral neuropathies, complete the intake form online to see if you qualify for medical marijuana. Then, you can make a telehealth appointment with Texas THC Doctor online or over the phone.