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What helps the symptoms of Small Fiber Neuropathy?
Good morning
I know most members here have more severe symtoms than I.
I woke up one morning in august with both feet tingling and with a sandy like feeling under my toes and bottom of both feet. I had no previous warning. My family doctor said that is strange maybe it will fo away on its own?? I had a short assessment with a poditrist which cost me $95 dollars and he said I had beginnings of small fiber neuraphy buy cushioned insoles and come back if it gets worse. To see a neurolagist here is 3 year wait and I have no coverage I am at my wits end on what to do for this. I thought only diabitics got this. My anxiety level is off the wall. I have researched on line and do stretches and walk. Any advice on what to do to possibly stop the tingling would be so much appreciated. Margie
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Hi John, I've noticed there seems to be more dryness to my toes and fingers. I contribute this Raynaud's disease which I have as well as Gout and peripherals neuropathy which has not been diagnosed as small fibre neuropathy, Yet! Having three pain events can be trying some days, which meds do I use, LOL. You've noticed the skin dryness as well, I'm using aromatherapy specially mixed for me and a cream Busia's Balm Hand-Made, Cassia Arthritis when I go to sleep, this helps me as well.
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1 ReactionMargie,
I have experienced peripheral neuropathy for 8 years and there is no know cause for it. I have been tested extensively.
I was blessed to be able to see an expert Neurologist who specializes and does research in peripheral neuropathy at a major university medical center near my home. He told me that the only supplement that is backed by scientific research to help peripheral neuropathy is Alpha Lipoic Acid. It is used in Europe. He said it does not help all people, but it helped me. My pain is gone, but my numbness remains in my feet only. My neuropathy has not progressed - it is stable- and there is some evidence that my nerves are starting to regenerate! It also helped my brother with the pain and he has severe peripheral neuropathy. I buy Alpha lipoic Acid on Amazon made in the US by Superior Labs. Discuss with your doctor to see if it is right for you.
I decided to reduce my statin dose after talking with my Cardiologist. Personally, I think the statin contributed to my peripheral neuropathy because is listed as a side effect. My brother did the same.
I follow a low carbohydrate diet that is approved by my physician to keep my blood sugar in good control so I won’t get Type 2 diabetes like other family members.
My Neurologist also advised me to do daily aerobic exercise approved by my Cardiologist. I do light indoor aerobics, yoga for balance training, and exercises from my physical therapist for strength training. My balance and strength have improved with daily training in my home. I put on my favorite music and do my exercises, sometimes with oxygen and sometimes without.
I have significant cardiac and lung issues, but my overall health and ability to adapt, enjoy life with less pain, and without pain medication, feels great. Each day I improve and I am so grateful . I don’t let the difficult days discourage me.
I wish you the best in finding something that works for you. Small changes overtime can make a difference.
Hi Syndney, It's good to hear that you've found something that helps. One pain event is enough but three...yikes!
I am on ambien as well and was told by a sleep Psychologist that never go cold turkey. It’s better to taper off week to week and vary day to day. She is the one who advised me how to use a cpap machine for I am claustrophobic. I sleep better and longer but haven’t started weening of the ambien yet (afraid too).
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1 ReactionI can look up my notes if you like.
I agree about the memory problems. I have the same problem. I take gabapentin and tramadol every day and I know I’m not as sharp as I could be. But the pills do help so until something else comes along, I’ll keep taking them.
How long did you take ALA before you saw improvement.? What dosage are you taking? Thank you
Going off Ambien or its generic (Zolpidem tartrate) all at once will result in a totally sleepless night at first, somewhat better the second night then you are weaned off for good. Do not take naps during day one or two to make withdrawal more effective.
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1 ReactionMy Neurologist said to take 1 capsule twice a day. My pain and tingling symptoms improved after I decreased the statin dose and then went away within two months of taking the SuperiorLab brand of ALA, which has 600 mg per capsule. The Neurologist said I needed to take it for at least a year. After a year, he said I could continue the dose, but I decreased it to 1 capsule. I have no pain. My brother’s severe peripheral neuropathy pain improved within 6 months. He tried stopping it after a year and his pain returned, so he resume taking it. He had tried all the traditional drugs prescribed, but ALA works the best for him. He is not on any pain medicines now. Check with your pharmacist or doctor to make sure that ALA does not interact with any of your other medications. Hope this helps.
One last thought, I am unable to swallow the capsules, so I mix the powder in with yogurt, applesauce, or sour cream to coat the powder well before taking it.
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