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.
Can infections cause neuropathy?
Yes, neuropathy may be caused by infections either through direct damage to the nerves or an immune response causing nerve inflammation or damage. It is known as infectious neuropathy and may involve sensory, motor, or autonomic nerves depending on the infection and severity.
???? Infections That Cause Neuropathy
1. HIV/AIDS
HIV itself may damage nerves, especially at later stages.
May lead to distal symmetric polyneuropathy (numbness, tingling, or burning sensation in hands and feet).
Some HIV medications may also lead to neuropathy.
2. Shingles (Herpes Zoster)
Due to reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (same virus that produces chickenpox).
May cause postherpetic neuralgia, a form of chronic nerve pain after the rash has gone away.
Nerve pain is usually localized and burning or stabbing in nature.
3. Lyme Disease
Due to Borrelia burgdorferi from tick bites.
May cause radiculoneuropathy (pain of nerve roots), facial nerve palsy, or limb numbness/tingling.
Can occur weeks to months after infection.
4. Hepatitis C
May lead to mixed cryoglobulinemia, where the proteins cause inflammation of blood vessels and nerves.
Can cause painful sensory neuropathy in hands and feet.
5. Leprosy (Hansen’s Disease)
Eritrocyte sedimentation rate due to Mycobacterium leprae, which causes skin and peripheral nerves mainly.
Produces progressive loss of sensation, particularly in hands, feet, and face.
Still present in some parts of Asia, Africa, and South America.
6. Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
Can lead to acute-onset neuropathy, especially in immunocompromised hosts.
The motor nerves are apt to be affected, with weakness or paralysis.
7. Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) and Influenza
Rarity, these can cause Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), an autoimmune neuropathy after an infection.
In GBS, peripheral nerves are attacked by the immune system, causing weakness, tingling, and paralysis.
8. COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2)
Can lead to neuropathy-like presentation with tingling, numbness, and GBS-like syndromes in occasional cases.
⚙️ Mechanisms of Neuropathy in Infections
Direct infection of nerves by virus or bacteria (e.g., leprosy, HIV)
Immune response to infection (e.g., GBS secondary to EBV or Zika virus)
Inflammation or occlusion of blood vessels affecting nerve perfusion (e.g., Hepatitis C with cryoglobulinemia)
Toxin production by pathogens (e.g., diphtheria)
???? Treatment
Treat the infection (e.g., antivirals, antibiotics)
Immune therapies (e.g., IVIG, plasma exchange in GBS)
Pain management (e.g., gabapentin, duloxetine)
Physical therapy to preserve strength and mobility
✅ In Summary:
Yes, infection may cause neuropathy, either by directly damaging nerves or indirectly by provoking the immune system. The type and degree of nerve damage depend on the offending pathogen, the immune response of the patient, and timing of intervention. Early treatment and diagnosis are critical to avoiding extensive long-term nerve damage.
Would you like information on a specific infection or infectious vs. non-infectious neuropathy?
Neuropathy may occur due to long-term alcohol use—also known as alcoholic neuropathy—through a synergistic mix of toxic nerve damage, nutritional deficiency, and oxidative stress. Alcoholic neuropathy typically affects the peripheral nerves, especially of the legs and feet, and tends to worsen over time if alcohol consumption continues.
???? Mechanisms: Mechanisms by Which Alcohol Damages Nerves
Direct Neurotoxicity
Alcohol and its metabolites (especially acetaldehyde) are toxic to nerves.
Recurring exposure damages both the axon (nerve fiber) and myelin sheath (insulating covering), interfering with signal transmission.
Nutritional Deficiencies
Excessive drinking impacts absorption, storage, and utilization of key nutrients—most importantly:
Thiamine (vitamin B1)
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B12
Niacin
Folate
These vitamins are essential for maintenance and repair of nerves. Deficiency can accelerate nerve damage and worsen symptoms.
Liver Dysfunction
Alcohol use disorder liver disease can worsen neuropathy by disrupting metabolism and increasing the level of toxins in the bloodstream, further burdening the nervous system.
Oxidative Stress and Inflammation
Alcohol promotes the release of free radicals and inflammatory mediators, which increasingly injure nerve tissues.
⚠️ Alcoholic Neuropathy Symptoms
Symptoms often develop over time and can include:
Pain, burning, or numbness in the hands and feet
Muscle weakness or cramping
Numbness or decreased sensation
Loss of coordination or balance
Foot drop (in severe cases)
Digestive problems (nausea, constipation, diarrhea)
Bladder impairment
Sexual impairment
These typically start in the legs and may extend up if alcohol drinking persists.
???? Diagnosis
No one test exists for alcoholic neuropathy, but diagnosis usually involves:
Medical history (including drinking alcohol)
Neurological examination
Blood tests (for vitamins and liver function)
Nerve conduction tests or electromyography (EMG)
???? Treatment and Management
Complete Abstinence from Alcohol
Abstinence from alcohol use is the most important measure to prevent further injury.
Nutritional Support
Supplementation of B-complex vitamins, especially thiamine and B12, promotes nerve repair.
A registered dietitian can help in the development of a well-balanced dietary plan.
Medications for Pain
Gabapentin, pregabalin, or duloxetine may be prescribed for nerve pain.
Physical Therapy
Enhances strength, balance, and mobility.
Supportive Care
Prevents complications such as bladder dysfunction or foot ulcers.
???? Takeaway
Alcoholic neuropathy is a preventable and manageable condition, but early detection and abstinence from alcohol must be implemented. The longer alcohol is used, the higher the likelihood of permanent damage.
Do you want information on how to support recovery from alcoholic neuropathy or tips for nutritional rehabilitation?
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.