Signs You Might Have Nerve Damage According To Doctors
Numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness are just a few symptoms to keep on your radar.
There are billions of nerves in your body. Most of them, your peripheral nerves, are like branches of a tree that spread out all over and transmit messages back to the trunkyour brain and spinal cord. When everything goes smoothly, your brain gets the info it needs so that you can move your muscles, recognize pain, and keep your internal organs working properly.
But when peripheral nerves get damaged, its another story: Walking could become challenging, you might experience unrelenting pain, or you could end up with a serious injury because you had no idea how hot that stove was.
An estimated 20 million Americans suffer from peripheral nerve damage, a.k.a. neuropathy, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Diabetes is the number one cause. Bad luck is number two. Repetitive motion and Lyme disease follow, says Andrew Elkwood, M.D., a surgeon who specializes in nerve reconstruction at The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction in New York and New Jersey.
Other causes include sudden trauma , aging, vitamin deficiencies, heavy exposure to toxins , and infections and autoimmune disorders like hepatitis C, diphtheria, HIV, Epstein-Barr, rheumatoid arthritis, and Guillain-Barré Syndrome. In some cases, theres no known cause.
Should You See A Neurologist For Back And Neck Pain
People often think of a chiropractic doctor for chronic pain, but neurologists also diagnose and treat back pain and neck pain. Neurologists specialize in conditions and diseases that affect the brain, the spinal cord, and the nervous system this often includes chronic pain in the back and neck.
Talk to your primary care provider if you experience chronic back pain or neck pain. Your doctor can help you determine if you should see a specialist, such as a neurologist, for your symptoms. Some health insurance plans require a referral from your primary care physician. Contact Fayetteville Diagnostic Clinic to schedule an appointment with our board-certified neurologists in Northwest Arkansas.
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For Pain Caused By Nerve Damage See A Neurosurgeon
If youre bothered by chronic pain in your arms or legs, youve probably thought a lot about how to get rid of that pain. You might have wondered what caused it. But you may not have considered that the cause of your pain may offer clues about the best way to relieve your pain.
For example, if your pain is caused by a tight or pulled muscle, or osteoarthritis, your primary care physician or an orthopedic specialist, such as an orthopedic spine surgeon, may well be able to treat and resolve your pain.
However, if your pain is caused by a pinched or damaged nerve, your best bet for relief may be a neurosurgeon. At Neurosurgery One, we are experienced not only at diagnosing the source of your pain, but treating and relieving pain caused by damage to the nerves.
Nerve pain
Like bundles of electric wires, nerves transmit signals, including pain signals, to the brain. Irritation, such as with a pinched nerve, can disrupt the way those signals are transmitted, and the result can be ongoing and even intense pain.
Pinched nerves can be caused by:
- Repetitive motion
- Inflammation or pressure on a nerve root
- Pinched nerves can cause pain in the neck or lower back, and pain that radiates from the neck into the shoulder and arm.
Nerve pain has several characteristics that differentiate it from other types of pain. Those include:
- Burning
- Radiation down arms and hands or legs and feet
Differences between neurosurgeons and orthopedic surgeons
Neurosurgeons
- Total joint replacement
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Types Of Abdominal Pain
The type of abdominal pain experienced will vary according to the cause. The location also varies too. A localized pain in one specific area is often associated with problems of a particular organ.
Lower abdominal pain: appendix or intestinal blockage
Upper abdominal pain: gallstones, heart attack, hepatitis
Center abdominal pain: digestive disorders, injury, or appendicitis
Lower left abdominal pain: kidney problems, inflammatory bowel disease, or cancer
Lower right abdominal pain: spleen, kidneys, fecal impaction, cancer, or heart attack.
Abdominal pain can also be crampy, which will come and go. This is most commonly associated with diarrhea, constipation, and other digestive issues. Colicky pain indicates a more serious issue, such as kidney stones or gallstones. Sharp pains require immediate treatment.
Gastrointestinal Conditions That May Be Causing Your Abdominal Pain
1. Hemorrhoids rarely kill anyone, but they cause untold amounts of pain and embarrassment. Most cases resolve on their own or with over-the-counter medication. Some cases especially internal hemorrhoids, where they form inside your rectum can be very painful and difficult to treat. If you have internal hemorrhoids or a severe case of hemorrhoids, visit a New York City gastroenterologist. Our doctors have treatments unavailable to a general practitioner.
2. Almost everyone suffers from occasional short-term acid reflux. This indigestion usually doesnt last longer than a day and may even disappear after a couple of hours. However, if the feeling persists, it could signify gastroesophageal reflux disease , a treatable illness. Other symptoms may include unexplained weight loss, chest pain, sore throat, dry cough, wheezing, or gastroesophageal reflux disease.
3. You should see a doctor right away if youre vomiting blood. This symptom is an emergency, and you may need to call 911. If youre also experiencing some GERD symptoms as well as black, tarry, or bloody stools, visit a gastroenterologist as these are alarming symptoms. It could be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease, a sometimes pre-cancerous condition, or one of several concerning conditions, including cancer.
Our doctors at Manhattan Gastroenterology are New York City Gastroenterologists that specialize in the treatment of abdominal pain. Contact us for more information.
DISCLAIMER: PLEASE READ CAREFULLY
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Should You See A Neurologist For Back Pain And Neck Pain
People manage chronic back and neck pain in different ways. Some try stretching or alternating heat and cold at the source of the discomfort. Others turn to over-the-counter pain medicine and a stoic demeanor. Acute pain often goes away without medical treatment, but dont ignore chronic and persistent pain that lasts for weeks, months, or years. Weakness, numbness, tingling or pain radiating into an arm or leg are important symptoms that need evaluation by a physician. Talk to your doctor to determine the cause of the problem. Your primary care physician may refer you to a specialist, such as a neurologist, to help determine the cause of your back pain.
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How Is The Cause Of The Abdominal Pain Diagnosed
Physical Examination
Physical examination will include a careful examination of the patient’s abdomen, heart, and lungs in order to pinpoint the source of the pain.
- The doctor will touch different parts of the abdomen to check for tenderness or other signs that indicate the source of the pain.
- The doctor may do a rectal exam to check for small amounts of blood in the stool or other problems, such as a mass or internal hemorrhoids.
- If the patient is a man, the doctor may check the penis and testicles.
- If the patient is a woman, the doctor may do a pelvic exam to check for problems in the uterus, Fallopian tubes, and ovaries.
- The doctor also may look at the patient’s eyes for yellow discoloration and in the mouth to be sure the patient is not dehydrated.
Laboratory Tests
Laboratory tests may or may not help to determine the cause of the abdominal pain. Combined with the information gained from the questions the patient was asked and the physical examination performed by the doctor, certain blood or urine tests may be ordered and could assist in determining the diagnosis.
Radiology Tests
Radiology studies of the patient’s abdomen can be useful, but are not always necessary or helpful.
- Occasionally, an X-ray will show air outside of the bowel, meaning that something has ruptured or perforated.
- An X-ray also can help diagnose bowel obstruction.
- Sometimes X-rays can show a kidney stone.
Ultrasound is a painless procedure useful in finding some causes of abdominal pain.
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The Outlook For Ovarian Cancer Is Improving
About 21,750 women in the US will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2020, according to the ACS, down slightly from the previous two years.
But it’s still one of the a concern, as an estimated 13,940 women will die from the disease this year, making ovarian cancer the fifth deadliest cancer among women.
But the death rate from ovarian cancer has been steadily declining in the past decades, according to available data, and the survival rate for early stages is more than 90%.
Schink stressed that the outlook for the disease is improving.
“People need to be aware that new treatments are emerging rapidly and survival continues to improve,” he said. “Every year it gets better and we have new treatment options … It’s not a death sentence. It is becoming a more and more manageable cancer.”
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Signs You Need To See A Gi Doctor
- 7 Signs You Need To See A GI Doctor
What does a gastroenterologist do and how do you know when it’s time to see a gastro doctor? A gastroenterologist is an expert in digestive health and issues related to the stomach, intestines, and bowels, but also includes a number of other organs related to the entire digestive tract.
A lot happens between the time food enters your mouth until it is excreted from your body as waste. Your liver, pancreas, esophagus, and stomach all play a role in the digestive process. Sometimes changes in your digestion may be a minor response to new foods, medications, or stressful situations. Certain symptoms may indicate something more serious that needs to be checked out. How do you know when to see a GI doctor and when to let symptoms pass?
Its always a good idea to get any new symptoms evaluated. Some require faster attention than others. The symptoms below require immediate attention from a GI specialist. Here are 7 signs you need to see a gastroenterologist:
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Could That Shoulder Pain Really Stem From The Neck
When a nerve root in the cervical spine is irritated, the symptoms can radiate into the shoulder, arm, and hand. WatchCervical Radiculopathy Interactive Video
When shoulder pain is actually coming from the neck, it is wise to seek treatment as one or more nerves running from the neck into the shoulder could be at risk.
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How Is Abdominal Pain Treated
Treating abdominal pain depends on its cause. Options include:
- Medications for inflammation, gastroesophageal reflux disease or ulcers.
- Antibiotics for infection.
- Changes in personal behavior for abdominal pain caused by certain foods or beverages.
- Local or spinal injections of numbing agents or corticosteroids by pain management physicians.
In more severe cases like appendicitis and hernia, surgery is necessary.
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Other Possible Signs Include Fatigue Constipation Changes In Your Period Or Pain During Sex
The ACS also lists fatigue, constipation, upset stomach, back pain, and pain during sex other potential symptoms of ovarian cancer. Unexplained weight loss, particularly with the other symptoms, is another clue.
It’s also possible ovarian cancer could cause changes in periods. But Schink said it’s not common sign because the majority of people who get ovarian cancer are peri- or post-menopausal, and have already stopped menstruating regularly. Even in pre-menopausal women, ovarian cancer may not stop periods, he added.
“The ovaries are a remarkable organ and in some women, they keep cycling even if one of them is really filled with cancer,” Schink said.
Vaginal bleeding not during your period, though, is cause for concern, as is any other abnormal vaginal discharge.
Where Can I Find A Stomach Specialist In New York Ny
You can find one here at Vanguard Gastroenterology! Go ahead and read about our professionals, or for a consultation with one of the professionals. During a consultation, well provide an evaluation and tell you more about the tests and treatments we can provide. Well also make sure youre very comfortable with your stomach specialist and our procedures at Vanguard Gastroenterology.
We look forward to your visit with us! We serve patients from New York NY, Midtown NY, Queens NY, Brooklyn NY, The Bronx NY, East Elmhurst NY, Ridgewood NY, Valley Stream NY, and Staten Island NY.
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You Started Feeling Discomfort Around Your Navel A While Agoand Now Its Turned Into Intense Pain In Your Lower Right Side
Ah, the appendix. No one is quite sure what its good for, but when infection or obstruction causes inflammation, known as appendicitis, it requires swift attention. A rupture of the insignificant organ can spread a potentially life-threatening infection throughout the abdomen. In addition to pain, other red flags include a low-grade fever, nausea or vomiting, bloating, loss of appetite, and constipation or diarrhea. An inflamed appendix can rupture within 72 hours, or even more quicklyso let your doctor know if you have any concerns.
Good to know: Eating a diet rich in fiber may lower your chances of developing appendicitis.
Ways To Relieve Pain From A Shoulder Problem
If these measures fail to bring relief, you may need an MRI of your shoulder. If that shows a torn rotator cuff, then shoulder surgery may be necessary, says Dr. Ricchetti. If the physical exam and imaging indicate arthritis or a nerve-related pain in your neck, he recommends referral to a spine specialist. Spine specialists will conduct a thorough neurological examination, and do imaging and other tests. They will also begin with conservative care.
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Signs That It Is Time To Go To The Doctor For Neck Pain
Sometimes, neck pain responds to self-care that includes heat, ice, and rest. Other times, though, treatment is needed. If you are dealing with neck pain and unsure if you need to visit a doctor, then there are more severe symptoms keep in mind. Anyone dealing with the following symptoms should contact their primary care practitioner or walk into an Urgent Care facility:
- Muscle spasms in the neck
- Neck pain that gets worse
- Neck pain that continues to linger
- If you injure your neck
- Pain moves from the neck to the shoulders, causing numbness or weakness
- Flu-like symptoms when your back aches
Do Orthopedic Doctors Treat Nerve Pain
Orthopedic doctors can help reduce pain
This includes muscles, nerves, bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and other connective tissue. There are many musculoskeletal conditions and injuries that can cause pain, and often, orthopedic specialists can help reduce or eliminate pain.
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How To Test If You Have Sciatica
Sciatica is a group of distinct symptoms causing intense, sometimes debilitating pain down the sciatic nerve.nearly 40 percent of people experience sciatic pain at some point, and while the pain
Sciatica is a group of distinct symptoms causing intense, sometimes debilitating pain down the sciatic nerve.According to Harvard Health,Verified SourceHarvard HealthBlog run by Harvard Medical School offering in-depth guides to better health and articles on medical breakthroughs.View sourcenearly 40 percent of people experience sciatic pain at some point, and while the pain is severe, the symptoms typically pass on their own.
Sciatica is rather common as its a result of different diseases or conditions pinching the sciatic nerve. With the correct diagnosis, the condition can be treated and the pain will eventually subside.
To diagnose sciatica, doctors complete two physical exams to measure the pressure on your sciatic nerve. We share how you can complete these same tests at home and discuss more what sciatica is. If you believe you have sciatica, speak to your doctor about diagnosis and treatment options.
How Can I Find A Top
You can use Zocdoc to find Gastroenterology Consultation doctors who are highly rated by other patients. These ratings are based on verified reviews submitted by real patients. Every time a patient completes an appointment booked on Zocdoc, theyre invited to review their experience. Each review must comply with Zocdocs guidelines.
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See A Doctor If Your Symptoms Last Any Longer Than Two Weeks
Schink said if you experience any of the above symptoms for more than two weeks, see your doctor.
“Most abdominal issues that are related to viral illness come and go in less than a week. So when things persist for two weeks, it’s time to see your physician,” he said.
And don’t be afraid to tell your doctor that you’re concerned about ovarian cancer specifically, he added.
The ACS also recommends seeing a doctor if you have symptoms more than 12 times within a month.
This is even more important for older women, as half of all cases of ovarian cancer occur in women 63 and older, according to the ACS. You may also be at higher risk if you’ve had breast cancer, had children later in life and/or had fertility treatments or hormone therapy for menopause.
What Is The Cervical Spine
The cervical spine is the neck region of your spinal column. Its made up of seven small, highly mobile bones, and their associated ligaments, muscles, and shock-absorbing discs.
Anything that aggravates or comes into contact with your spinal nerve roots can lead to radiculopathy, and that includes several common conditions in which growths or abnormalities cause something to invade the space of the nerve root.
- Herniated disc: The shock-absorbing discs between vertebrae can become damaged and may develop a bulge and/or leak fluid.
- Synovial cyst: These lumps are caused by a buildup of joint fluid that forms a sac.
- Bone spur: An extra bit of bone forms in response to damage or chronic inflammation.
- Cervical spondylosis : This condition involves the formation of bone spurs in the neck.
- Spinal stenosis: An advanced stage of spinal arthritis, stenosis occurs when the spaces in the spine become narrowed, usually due to excess bone growth.
- Degenerative disc disease: Discs between vertebrae erode and fray over time, which may cause a herniated disc. In cases of severe degeneration, bone-on-bone contact can cause bone spurs in the joint.
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