Treatment:

Treatment is based on the symptoms and their severity.

Medications may be used to control painful neuropathy. However, the use of medications is usually discouraged unless absolutely necessary. Over-the-counter analgesics may be helpful for mild pain. Opiate pain relievers, such as morphine or fentanyl, may be needed to control severe pain. Antidepressant medications, or anticonvulsants (such as gabapentin), may be helpful for some types of nerve pain.

The medication causing the neuropathy may be stopped, reduced in dose, or changed to another medication. (Any changes in medication should only occur as recommended by the health care provider).

Loss of sensation may require additional safety measures or other interventions to compensate for the loss of sensation.

Expectations (prognosis):

In many cases, a partial or full return to normal function is possible. The disorder is not usually associated with life-threatening complications, but it can be uncomfortable or disabling.

Complications:

• Permanent loss of sensation (or rarely, movement) of an area
• Inability to function at work or home because of permanent loss of sensation

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you have a loss of sensation or movement of any area of the body while taking any medication.