Numbness and tingling could signal nerve damage

• Published date: 26 April 2024
• Author: Vuyile Madwantsi
• Publication title: Mercury

Tanya Buys, a pharmacist at Medipost Pharmacy, explained: “Our nerves form a complex network that allows our brain to communicate with our organs and muscles, controlling everything from our heartbeat to our ability to feel heat or cold

“This network can be disrupted by many things, including injuries, infections, diseases like diabetes, genetic conditions, or toxins exposure.”

This underlines the importance of not ignoring odd tingling sensations, as they could signal a larger issue.

Health experts are highlighting the importance of B vitamins for maintaining a healthy nervous system, especially for those with nerve damage, or as a preventive step.

Without enough vitamins B1, B6, and B12, people can face long-term nerve damage.

Nerve damage isn’t just an issue of discomfort; it can lead to weakness, loss of sensation, and even severe pain.

Victims often describe their suffering as a mix of burning, stabbing or tingling, with the affected area being overly sensitive to touch.

Regular painkillers like paracetamol often don’t cut it for them, requiring doctors to prescribe special medication for what’s known as neuropathic pain.

But how does one end up with nerve damage in the first place? It turns out that injuries are a common cause.

“The severity of the injury usually dictates how extensive the damage is,” said Buys. “While minor injuries might lead to some level of nerve damage, the body often heals itself. More significant injuries, though, can lead to severe damage needing specialised nerve repair.”

According to Buys, the specific treatment for nerve damage depends largely on its cause and extent. She points out multiple sclerosis and shingles as conditions that can lead to rapid and in the case of MS, permanent, nerve deterioration if not treated early.

“A neurologist’s early diagnosis is key to managing the disease from the start, essentially to slow down or stop further nerve damage and improve the patient’s life,” she said.

When nerves don’t work right, they can’t send...