Diabetes is the leading cause of neuropathy in the western world. Scientist believe high levels of blood sugar gradually damage the nerves. Gabapentin brough Marcella immediate and dramatic results. And she says, Gabapentin is helping her get a good night's sleep for the first time in months. Irene Maher, Newschannel 8.
Peripheral neuropathy is damage to the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord.
That damage leads to problems in communication between the brain and nerves that serve the muscles, skin, and the internal organs. Depending upon the nerves involved, symptoms may range from muscle weakness, loss of feeling, digestive problems, or aching, burning, sharp pain. The Neuropathy Association estimates that over two million people in the United States have some degree of peripheral neuropathy. One of the most common causes of the condition is diabetes mellitus. According to the American Diabetes Association, about 60 to 70 percent of patients with diabetes have peripheral neuropathy.