Neuropathy tests: what a clinician may check and why

Because a supplement cannot find a cause. Mayo Clinic says to seek care right away for tingling, weakness or pain in the hands or feet, since early diagnosis gives the best chance of managing symptoms (Mayo Clinic, Peripheral neuropathy).

Taking something first can hide the timeline you will need to describe. Write down what you take. NIH says to keep a record and tell every provider (NIH ODS, Dietary Supplements: What You Need to Know).

• Find the causePeripheral neuropathy has more than 100 types, and diabetes is the leading cause in the U.S. (NINDS). A clinician decides which applies. (NINDS, Peripheral neuropathy)
• Ask about vitamin B12B12 deficiency can cause numbness and tingling in hands and feet without anemia; metformin and acid reducers can lower absorption (NIH). (NIH ODS, Vitamin B12)
• Check blood sugarNIDDK describes nerve damage as a diabetes complication; testing and care come before any supplement. (NIDDK, Diabetic neuropathy)
• Review alcohol and medicinesMayo Clinic lists alcohol use disorder and some medicines, especially chemotherapy, among causes. (Mayo Clinic, Peripheral neuropathy)
• Take pressure off the nerveCasts, crutches and repetitive motion can compress nerves (Mayo Clinic). (Mayo Clinic, Peripheral neuropathy)
• Tell your team what you takeNIH says to tell every provider about every supplement and keep a record; more might not be better. (NIH ODS, Dietary Supplements: What You Need to Know)