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The Question
07/31/09 09:56 PM

"Should I see a neurologist?"
Asked By: freeland  
Category: Neuropathy

Background Info Hide
A neurologist diagnosed peripheral neuropathy in 1995. Blood labs were normal - labeled it Charcot-Tooth. Type 2 diagnosed 2007; I'm controlling it well with diet and oral med. I have been taking 60 Amitriptyline for PN pain for these 12 years. After taking it for so long, I'm having serious sleep problems and it does nothing for my fingers which became numb and extremely sensitive 5 months ago. Internist said it was Carpal Tunnel and ordered wrist splints to be worn at night. My days are miserable. I very likely could have CT as I worked on a key board my entire career but fingers feel quite numb like my toes. Couldn't a neurological test determine whether it's Carpal or PN? Should I be changing meds after so many years? Incidentally, this is a great site.

Expert Answers (1)

08/05/09 01:45 PM

Hello Freeland; Thank you for your vote of confidence. Due to the fact that diabetes is a progressive disease of continued beta-cell malfunction, I would agree with the physician in you and make that appointment for a complete neurological evaluation. Chacot's joint is a neuropathic condition, requiring close monitoring, such as reducing or eliminating weigh bearing and preventing further structural damage to the inflicted joint/joints. There are several tests available for conclusively diagnosis, pain management and potential treatments. Changes in the status of your foot/hands-things like redness/hot sensations, should all be reported to your PCP/Endocrinologist/Neurologist.

Your part is to check your feet/body areas daily for any changes,(no matter how slight report to PCP).

I am sincerely sorry to hear of your chronic discomforts.

This diagnosis, progressive as I described, impacts motor nerves to voluntary movement, the damage can make muscles weak. Sensory nerves which allow feeling sensations, hot/cold/rough/smooth may also be impacted. The control of involuntary body functions, heart, lungs, blood vessels, stomach, intestine&etc. Referred to 'polyneuropathies'. Distal neuropathy is nerve damage to the feet and legs and sometimes to the hands. Distal meaning down and symmetric meaning it occurs on both sides of the body.

I like to focus on how to prevent(any additional damage or lessen the nerve damage).

  • Keep the blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible <140mg/dl
  • A1c<7% When you have too much glucose in the blood it enters the nerve cell and the accumulating sugar alcohols build-up to block nerve messages.
  • Stop smoking
  • Alcohol may cause more nerve damage
  • Blood pressure<130/80 (high pressures weaken blood vessels).
  • Keep cholesterol <200mg/dl, any accumulation can impact the delivery of oxygen to your nerves. The earlier damage is detected, the better your response to treatment.
    • Answered By: Susan Throop
    Accreditations: RD, CDE, MA
    Sources Show

    Community Answers (1)

    08/20/09 09:10 PM

    Several meds might help like lyrica or cymbalt for neuropathy problems. Yes there are test I have a nerve test and came up carpal tunnel its no picnic but the test will define what is going on for you.
    Answered By: furball64801
    FLAG
    SourcesShow



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