How does diabetes cause neuropathy?

hotsiagoodman
May 9, 2025


Neuropathy No More By JODI KNAPP Neuropathy No More is an eBook which is a compilation of all the essential information and details about the nervous system and how to keep it active and healthy. With the help of this program, one can get a relief from the symptoms of neuropathy. This eBook not only tells you about the nervous system, but also helps to provide essential information to get relief from the condition of neuropathy. It also provides information about how you can prevent this condition from coming back in the near future.

How does diabetes cause neuropathy?

Yes, infections can cause neuropathy, either by directly damaging nerves or by triggering an immune response that leads to nerve inflammation or injury. This type of nerve damage can be temporary or permanent, depending on the infection and the severity of nerve involvement.

Infectious Causes of Neuropathy

1. Viral Infections

  • HIV/AIDS: Can cause distal symmetric polyneuropathy, often affecting feet and hands. Antiretroviral drugs may also contribute.

  • Herpes zoster (shingles): Causes postherpetic neuralgia, a painful nerve condition that can last months or years after the rash clears.

  • Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and Cytomegalovirus (CMV): May cause acute or chronic nerve pain, especially in immunocompromised individuals.

  • Hepatitis C: Associated with peripheral neuropathy due to direct infection or related immune responses.

2. Bacterial Infections

  • Lyme disease: Caused by Borrelia burgdorferi from tick bites; can lead to facial palsy or peripheral neuropathy if untreated.

  • Leprosy (Hansen’s disease): Mycobacterium leprae infects skin and peripheral nerves, leading to numbness, muscle weakness, and deformities.

  • Diphtheria: Rare in developed countries due to vaccination, but can cause demyelinating neuropathy.

3. Other Infections

  • COVID-19: Linked to cases of neuropathy, including Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) and small fiber neuropathy.

  • Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS): An autoimmune neuropathy often triggered by infections like Campylobacter jejuni, Zika virus, or flu. Causes acute weakness, numbness, and sometimes paralysis.

Mechanisms of Nerve Damage from Infections

  • Direct invasion of nerves

  • Immune-mediated injury (e.g., GBS)

  • Inflammatory cytokines damaging nerve cells

  • Secondary complications, such as malnutrition, from chronic illness

Symptoms of Infection-Related Neuropathy

  • Numbness or tingling

  • Burning or stabbing pain

  • Muscle weakness or paralysis

  • Loss of coordination

  • Sensitivity to touch

Treatment

  • Treat the underlying infection: Antibiotics, antivirals, or other antimicrobials.

  • Immunotherapy: For immune-mediated neuropathies like GBS (IVIG, plasmapheresis).

  • Pain management: Gabapentin, amitriptyline, or topical agents.

  • Physical therapy: To regain strength and mobility.

Summary

Yes, several viral, bacterial, and immune-related infections can lead to neuropathy. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment of both the infection and nerve damage can help reduce long-term complications.

Would you like a list of infections most commonly linked to chronic neuropathy?


Neuropathy No More By JODI KNAPP Neuropathy No More is an eBook which is a compilation of all the essential information and details about the nervous system and how to keep it active and healthy. With the help of this program, one can get a relief from the symptoms of neuropathy. This eBook not only tells you about the nervous system, but also helps to provide essential information to get relief from the condition of neuropathy. It also provides information about how you can prevent this condition from coming back in the near future.