Neuropathy can cause symptoms in the feet such as pain, burning, and tingling. The most common cause of neuropathy is diabetes but connective tissue diseases such as lupus can also be a cause of the problem.
Neuropathy caused by lupus is significantly different than the kind caused by diabetes. High blood sugar causes diabetic-related neuropathy whereas inflammation causes lupus-related neuropathy.
Common Peripheral Neuropathy Symptoms
If you have lupus, you may develop inflammation in your blood vessels that can lead to damage to the nerve cells. The type of neuropathy with lupus is called peripheral neuropathy and it can happen in your hands or feet. Peripheral neuropathy can affect both sides of your body.
Peripheral neuropathy from lupus can have a range of symptoms from mild to severe such as:
- Numbness
- Stabbing or shooting pain
- Tingling
- Burning sensation
- Weakness
- Inability to feel hot or cold
- Paralysis
Treatment Options
If you think you are suffering from neuropathy caused by lupus, your podiatrist can examine your feet and order nerve or imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis.
Based on your condition, your podiatrist can develop a custom treatment plan. Some treatment options include:
- Medication. Lupus medications can reduce inflammation and flares to help lessen neuropathic pain. For severe pain, opioid pain medication may be used to provide relief.
- Rest. Resting when you have a lupus flare can reduce your neuropathy symptoms and help you with managing pain.
- Avoidance of triggers. Avoiding triggers such as certain foods or direct sun exposure can reduce flare-ups of your lupus symptoms.
- Dietary supplements. A supplement such as Vitamin B can often help with symptoms. Always check with your doctor before taking supplements to make sure they will not interfere with any other medication you may be taking.
Set Up an Appointment With an Experienced Podiatrist
If you are experiencing symptoms of neuropathy or any other type of pain in your ankles or feet, contact Greater Washington Advanced Podiatry. We can help you understand the issues you may be experiencing and can offer a free initial consultation. To set up an appointment, fill out our contact form or call us at (301) 515-FEET.
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