Overview
Nerve pain (neuropathy) happens when nerves are damaged or irritated. It feels different from ordinary pain: burning, shooting, tingling or like electric shocks. Diabetes is the most common cause, often affecting the feet. Sciatica, shingles and vitamin B12 deficiency are other causes.
Causes
- Diabetes (diabetic neuropathy)
- Pressure on nerves from a slipped disc (sciatica)
- Shingles
- Vitamin B12 deficiency
- Alcohol and some medicines
Risk factors
- Poorly controlled diabetes
- Long-term metformin use (low B12)
- Older age
- Back problems
- Heavy alcohol use
Symptoms
- Burning, tingling or pins and needles
- Shooting or stabbing pain
- Numbness, especially in the feet
- Pain at night
- Sensitivity to touch
Diagnosis
Your doctor will examine sensation and reflexes, and may check blood sugar, vitamin B12 and other blood tests, or do nerve tests.
Management
- Controlling blood sugar in diabetes
- Nerve-pain medicines such as pregabalin, as prescribed
- Vitamin B12 (mecobalamin) if levels are low
- Daily foot checks and comfortable footwear
- Physiotherapy for sciatica
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for new numbness, weakness, burning feet or pain that disturbs sleep. Get urgent help for sudden weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or numbness around the groin.
This information is for general awareness and does not replace advice from your doctor. Prescription medicines are supplied only against a valid prescription. Questions? Ask our pharmacist on WhatsApp.