Nerve Pain Management, Causes, and Symptoms
Nerve pain can be a debilitating symptom of a number of conditions or other causes. So much so, that individuals may not be able to carry out daily activities. Fortunately, there are ways to keep up with nerve pain management so that pain can be less severe or even prevented completely. Whether you have nerve pain from an injury or other medical condition, there are a few things that you can do.
Causes and Symptoms of Nerve Pain
Before you can find out which nerve pain management method works best for you, first, you’ll need to find out why you are experiencing nerve pain. Of course, the only sure way to know why you are experiencing nerve pain is to get a diagnosis by a doctor. But, before asking a doctor, it’s important to document your symptoms so that your physician will be able to provide you with the most accurate diagnosis possible. Nerve pain can be caused by medical conditions like HIV, cancer, diabetes, and shingles, but it can also be a symptom of other ailments like an injury. Symptoms of nerve damage may differ as a result of the cause. Common nerve damage and pain symptoms may include:
- Tingling
- Numbing
- Aching
- Stinging
- Burning
- Impaired reflexes
- Heavy sweating
- Headaches
- Frequent urination
- Slips or falls
- Paralysis
- Trouble breathing
Nerve Pain Management
Since there are varying degrees of nerve pain and also different causes, there are different ways of nerve pain management. Some may work for you as others may have no effect. Once you are diagnosed with nerve damage and you find out what the cause is, you may be more equipped to select the best plan of treatment. Some different nerve pain management methods include:
Over the Counter Creams: Topical ointments are helpful to those experiencing nerve pain that is experienced in one specific region of the body especially.
Prescription Anticonvulsants: Initially designed to suppress convulsions in those suffering with epilepsy, these prescription medications can also help suppress nerve pain.
Prescription Painkillers: Sometimes the only relief for individuals struggling to manage symptoms of nerve damage and pain is opioid painkillers. Because these medications have the high risk for developing addiction and the increasing number of overdose deaths related to addiction to these medications, choosing this route should be considered very carefully.
Electrotherapy: Some nerve symptoms can be reduced with the help of certain electro therapies which work by sending electronic or magnetic impulses to the nerve system which help to stimulate nerve responses.
Holistic Therapies: Traditional medications usually aim to treat symptoms of a condition, whereas holistic therapies work to treat underlying conditions. Holistic therapies such as chiropractic care, acupuncture, massage, and meditation are used in the treatment of certain nerve pain symptoms.
Antidepressants: These prescription medications are often prescribed to treat mental conditions such as anxiety or depression, but also have the ability to help those with nerve pain manage symptoms. For example, Anafranil is a commonly prescribed antidepressant that can also be used to treat nerve pain if a doctor approves of the use.
Change in Habits: Along with medicinal and holistic treatments, there are a few things you can do on your own to reduce the pain and symptoms of nerve problems. Breathing exercises, losing weight, quitting smoking, and stretching are all lifestyle changes that may help to reduce the frequency and severity of nerve damage symptoms.
Medical Solutions: If the nerve pain or damage is severe enough and can be treated with surgery, be prepared that your doctor may suggest that as a solution. Also suggested may include pain relieving injections like steroid shots, which can help to greatly reduce symptoms of chronic pain in a number of scenarios.
Paying for your Nerve Pain Management Prescription
If you have been prescribed a medication to manage nerve pain and find it difficult to fork over the costs, there may be a way that you can save some money. Advocate My Meds is a company that utilizes over 700 patient assistance programs to pass prescription savings on to its members. We help to discount or cover many various prescription medications used in nerve pain management. To see if you are qualified or if we help with your specific prescriptions, please visit our website to find out more. If you would rather speak to an experienced employee, please give us a call at 877-596-1604.