Understanding Peripheral Neuropathy: Causes, Symptoms, and Care Tips for Hayward Residents
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that affects the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, often causing pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness—primarily in the hands and feet. If you live in Hayward, California, and are experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to understand the causes and know your treatment options.
At Prospero Vascular & Interventional (PVI), we specialize in diagnosing and treating peripheral neuropathy with advanced, minimally invasive therapies to help you regain comfort and mobility.
What Is Peripheral Neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy refers to damage or dysfunction of peripheral nerves, which send signals between your central nervous system and the rest of your body. This damage disrupts normal nerve function, leading to various uncomfortable symptoms.
Common Symptoms
Peripheral neuropathy symptoms can vary widely but often include:
- Burning, tingling, or “pins and needles” sensations in the feet or hands
- Numbness or reduced ability to feel pain or temperature changes
- Sharp, stabbing, or shooting pains
- Muscle weakness or difficulty with coordination
- Increased sensitivity to touch
- Balance problems or frequent falls
Causes and Risk Factors
Many conditions can cause or contribute to peripheral neuropathy, including:
- Diabetes: The most common cause, leading to diabetic neuropathy
- Infections: Such as shingles, Lyme disease, or HIV
- Autoimmune diseases: Like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus
- Vitamin deficiencies: Especially B vitamins
- Toxic exposures: Alcoholism, chemotherapy, or certain medications
- Injury or trauma: Nerve compression or physical injury
- Circulatory issues: Poor blood flow can worsen nerve health
How Does Peripheral Neuropathy Affect Daily Life?
Peripheral neuropathy can cause persistent pain and numbness, interfering with your ability to walk, hold objects, or even sleep. For Hayward residents, it can impact your job, hobbies, and independence—making early diagnosis and treatment crucial.
Treatment Approaches at Prospero Vascular & Interventional
At PVI, we offer advanced, targeted treatments designed to address the root causes of neuropathy and provide lasting relief:
1. Minimally Invasive Nerve Blocks and Ablations
- Using image-guided techniques, we deliver precise injections or ablations to calm nerve irritation and inflammation.
2. Vascular Interventions
- Since poor circulation can worsen neuropathy, we treat underlying vascular conditions to improve blood flow to affected nerves.
3. Medication Management and Supportive Therapies
- We coordinate with your primary care and neurology teams to optimize medications and recommend physical therapy.
4. Lifestyle and Supportive Care
- Nutritional counseling, vitamin supplementation, and advice on safe exercise to support nerve health.
Tips for Managing Peripheral Neuropathy Symptoms at Home
1. Protect Your Feet and Hands
- Inspect daily for injuries, wear comfortable shoes, and avoid extreme temperatures.
2. Stay Active
- Gentle exercise like walking or swimming improves circulation and reduces symptoms.
3. Maintain Good Blood Sugar Control
- For diabetics, consistent management is vital to slow neuropathy progression.
4. Avoid Alcohol and Smoking
- Both worsen nerve damage and circulation problems.
5. Use Pain Relief Measures
- Warm baths, massage, or over-the-counter pain relievers can ease discomfort.
6. Balance Diet and Vitamins
- Eat foods rich in B vitamins and antioxidants to support nerve repair.
When to Seek Medical Help
Contact your doctor if you experience:
- Sudden weakness or loss of movement
- Severe pain not relieved by over-the-counter meds
- Signs of infection on numb areas
- Problems with balance or frequent falls
Why Trust Prospero Vascular & Interventional in Hayward?
- Fellowship-trained interventional radiologists with expertise in nerve and vascular care
- Cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedures
- Personalized treatment plans tailored to your lifestyle
- Convenient East Bay location serving Hayward and beyond
Take the Next Step Toward Relief
Don’t let peripheral neuropathy control your life. At Prospero Vascular & Interventional, we’re here to help you find safe, effective treatments that improve function and reduce pain.
📞 Call (510) 977-8466 or
🌐 Visit prosperovascular.com to schedule your consultation today.
Move Better. Feel Better. Live Better.
