Can liver problems cause neuropathy?



Liver problems can indeed cause neuropathy, which is basically a disorder of the peripheral nervous system, in which the patient experiences symptoms such as weakness, cramps, and numbness in the affected parts of the body. In some cases, other symptoms such as spasms, tingling, burning, or even pain may be experienced, as well as loss of balance. There are many different types of neuropathy, but the one that the term "neuropathy" most commonly refers to is peripheral neuropathy, which typically affects the hands and feet.

The causes of neuropathy are varied, and these of course often depend on the type of neuropathy. However, peripheral neuropathy in particular can actually be the result of a disease of internal organs such as the liver, the kidneys, or the thyroid gland.

You have not mentioned the reason for your question - have you been diagnosed with any liver disease? Do you have any symptoms of neuropathy and have you visited a doctor for the same? If you are suffering from liver disease, you should closely follow your doctor's advice to minimize the damage that it can cause to your nervous system as well as the rest of your body.

If the liver problems have already caused damage to your nervous system, then the main course of action is symptomatic treatment. It is not always possible to reverse the damage, especially if the underlying problem cannot be controlled. Hopefully your liver problem is curable - if it is, then your neuropathy should be only temporary. Once your liver condition is under control, your nerves may also gradually begin functioning normally. However, nerve damage occurs only if liver disease has persisted for a long time, in which case the liver problem may be difficult to control. Still, it is important that you do whatever you can to treat your liver problem.

In the meanwhile, your doctor will prescribe treatments for specific symptoms of neuropathy. If you suffer pain, your doctor will most probably prescribe painkillers, antidepressants, or anti seizure drugs. This will depend on several factors, including the severity of the pain and your daily activities. Some of the drugs that are used to treat neuropathy can cause severe drowsiness, while others tend to be habit forming. If the pain is very mild, you can simply use over the counter painkillers. Treatments such as massage and acupuncture are also quite effective at managing such chronic pain, you should explore these options first.

answered by M W


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