It’s no secret that cardiovascular wellness helps support your overall health. But, did you know that it’s also critical for your nerves? Poor heart health can increase the risk of neuropathy, a nerve condition that causes pain and muscle weakness. In honor of American Heart Month, we’ve put together a blog detailing the link between heart health and neuropathy. Let’s take a closer look at what neuropathy is, its relationship with cardiovascular health and where you can find non-surgical neuropathy treatments.
How Neuropathy Can Affect Your Quality of Life
Before we examine the role of heart health in neuropathy, it’s important to understand what this condition is. Put simply, neuropathy occurs when the peripheral nerves (which are located outside the brain and spinal cord) become damaged. This can cause the following symptoms:
- Numbness and tingling (particularly in the legs, feet and hands)
- Burning sensation
- Muscle weakness
- Poor coordination
- Increased pain sensitivity
Over time, neuropathy can limit mobility and make it difficult to use your limbs.
Understanding Neuropathy: The Connection Between Nerve Damage and Heart Health
Now that you know what neuropathy is, you might be wondering: What causes it? In most cases, neuropathy is linked to medical conditions (such as autoimmune disorders or infections). Regardless of the cause, neuropathy symptoms can be exacerbated by poor heart health. Here are some ways that heart problems contribute to nerve damage:
- Poor circulation: Reduced blood flow deprives the nerves of oxygen and essential nutrients, which consequently damages the nerves.
- Chronic inflammation: Heart conditions may increase inflammation, which worsens nerve injuries and sensitivity.
- Reduced oxygen delivery: Heart disease is linked to blocked or narrowed arteries, which limit oxygen supply to the peripheral nerves.
Not only does heart disease impede nerve function, but it’s also connected to health conditions that can directly cause neuropathy (such as diabetes).
The Link Between Diabetes and Neuropathy: Managing the Connection
Are you one of the millions of Americans with diabetes? If so, you have a higher risk of developing heart disease and neuropathy. People with diabetes typically have elevated blood sugar levels, which harms blood vessel linings and makes them more susceptible to blockages. This also impedes the delivery of oxygen and nutrients, resulting in nerve damage. Thus, it’s important for diabetes patients to take steps to preserve heart health and prevent neuropathy.
Preventing and Managing Neuropathy: Lifestyle Changes That Help
Are you worried about developing neuropathy? Whether you’re at risk because of diabetes, heart problems or another condition, there are proactive steps you can take to protect your health. Here are some helpful lifestyle tips:
- Monitor blood sugar levels: Keeping your glucose levels in check helps prevent nerve damage and reduces heart disease risk.
- Maintain a healthy diet: Nutrient-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and healthy fats, support both heart health and nerve repair.
- Exercise regularly: Regular exercise encourages blood flow to the nerves and strengthens both the heart muscle and blood vessels.
- Avoid unhealthy habits: Certain habits, such as smoking and drinking, can reduce circulation and worsen nerve damage.
While these healthy lifestyle practices can definitely reduce your heart disease and neuropathy risk, they’re not always enough. If you notice any symptoms of nerve damage, consult a healthcare professional.
Effective Treatment Options for Neuropathy Pain Relief
Are you experiencing neuropathy symptoms? From numb arms and legs to muscle fatigue, there are many signs of nerve damage. The sooner you address these symptoms, the sooner you can prevent further damage and improve your overall health.
At MAPS Centers for Pain Control, we offer non-surgical, long-lasting neuropathy pain management solutions. Our treatments include the following:
- Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS): PNS involves implanting an electrical device that blocks pain signals from reaching the brain.
- Cryoneurolysis: This innovative treatment uses extremely cold temperatures to freeze nerves.
- Injections: Our injection-based therapies, which deliver medication directly to pain areas, include corticosteroid, epidural steroid and trigger point injections.
- Physical therapy: Through personalized exercises, patients can rebuild their strength, improve flexibility and achieve long-term pain relief.
- Ethical medication management: Our treatments may be combined with medication, which is monitored closely to prevent adverse effects.
In addition to tailored neuropathy treatments, our team will recommend lifestyle changes designed to support cardiovascular wellness. By taking a holistic approach that encompasses both your heart and nerve health, we’ll help reduce future health problems and improve overall quality of life.
Seeking Treatment at MAPS Centers for Pain Control: Supporting Your Heart and Nerve Health
Ready to take control of your health this American Heart Month? Our team at MAPS is dedicated to supporting your heart and nerve health. We’ll start by carefully assessing your condition, including your medical history and any symptoms you’re currently experiencing. Then, we’ll design a personalized treatment plan based on your needs. Schedule your consultation today!