Neuropathy Specialist
Tjoe Podiatry
Edward Tjoe, DPM
Podiatrist & Clinical Medicine and Podiatric Surgery located in Downtown Jersey City, Jersey City, NJ
If you have diabetes or another circulatory disorder, you’re also more likely to develop neuropathy. Left unmanaged, neuropathy increases your risk of slow-healing wounds and even amputation. At Tjoe Podiatry in Jersey City, New Jersey, Edward Tjoe, DPM, and his team regularly work with patients to ease the uncomfortable symptoms of neuropathy. Request your neuropathy consultation today by calling the office or using the online scheduling tool.
Neuropathy Q & A
What is neuropathy?
Neuropathy is a medical term used to describe damage or dysfunction in one or more nerves throughout the body. Neuropathic damage usually affects the extremities, such as the hands and feet, but it can affect other parts of your body, too.
When neuropathy destroys or damages your nerve cells, it disrupts their ability to communicate with your brain. Ultimately, this causes several uncomfortable symptoms and may also interfere with your mobility or ability to perform normal, routine tasks.
What are the symptoms of neuropathy?
All of the nerves in your peripheral system have specific functions. The symptoms you experience depend on the type of nerves affected. Telltale signs of neuropathy include:
- Numbness or tingling
- Jabbing, throbbing, or burning pain
- Extreme sensitivity to touch
- Muscle weakness
- Lack of coordination
- Falling
- Excessive sweating
As the condition progresses, you might also experience paralysis or the sensation that you’re wearing gloves or socks, even if you aren’t. Peripheral neuropathy can also cause bowel, bladder, and digestive problems.
What causes neuropathy?
The most common cause of neuropathy is diabetes. If your blood sugar levels are too high for too long, it permanently damages the nerves in your hands and feet. Other common causes of neuropathy include:
- Autoimmune diseases
- Tumors
- Bone marrow disorders
- Infections
- Exposure to certain chemicals
You might also develop neuropathy if one or more of your nerves experiences pressure or trauma.
How is neuropathy diagnosed?
To diagnose neuropathy, Dr. Tjoe reviews your medical history, asks you questions about your symptoms, and conducts a physical exam. He might also recommend blood tests or a neurological examination to rule out other problems.
How is neuropathy treated?
The team at Tjoe Podiatry can treat neuropathy with prescriptions such as pain relievers and anti-seizure medications.
If you’ve been diagnosed with neuropathy, don’t wait to seek professional treatment. Request your appointment at Tjoe Podiatry today by calling the office or clicking the online scheduling tool.