What kind of doctor would someone see if they think they have neuropathy?!
Question: What kind of doctor would someone see if they think they have neuropathy!?
A family member is having a severe burning sensation at the bottom of his feet!. It comes and goes but is very irritating!. Overall, he is very healthy and has no major health problems!. I believe this to be some sort of nerve damage but after much research I see that it might be associated with diabetes!. Although it might not be this at all, I am wondering what type of doctor is best to see so that he is not wandering around to different doctors that refer different doctors!? Please advise!.Www@Answer-Health@Com
Answers:
Probably both an endocrinologist and a neurologist!.
Depending on where you are, it may be necessary to see an internist or general physician in order to get a referral to one of the specialties listed above!. I know that's what you would like to avoid, but waiting for specialitsts is sometimes lengthy, and if the wait time is long, can lead to more complications!. A GP would be able to do basic screening tests eg!. blood glucose, blood counts, general physical, as well as a vitamin B12 test, in order to rule out more "simple" disorders!. Many vitamin deficiencies, and as you stated, diabetes, have neurological symptoms (ie!. B12, listed above) that can be easily tested for!.
Depending on the age of the "he" in question, both of the possibilities above are very common and easily treated!.
*ETA (based on your answer) - I would definately have his B12 checked!. B12 defieciency is common in those over 50, as the body no longer creates the necessary chemicals to absorb/utilize it properly (intrinsic factor)!. This can lead to "pernicious anemia", or neuropathic symptoms, even before anemia is present!.Www@Answer-Health@Com
Depending on where you are, it may be necessary to see an internist or general physician in order to get a referral to one of the specialties listed above!. I know that's what you would like to avoid, but waiting for specialitsts is sometimes lengthy, and if the wait time is long, can lead to more complications!. A GP would be able to do basic screening tests eg!. blood glucose, blood counts, general physical, as well as a vitamin B12 test, in order to rule out more "simple" disorders!. Many vitamin deficiencies, and as you stated, diabetes, have neurological symptoms (ie!. B12, listed above) that can be easily tested for!.
Depending on the age of the "he" in question, both of the possibilities above are very common and easily treated!.
*ETA (based on your answer) - I would definately have his B12 checked!. B12 defieciency is common in those over 50, as the body no longer creates the necessary chemicals to absorb/utilize it properly (intrinsic factor)!. This can lead to "pernicious anemia", or neuropathic symptoms, even before anemia is present!.Www@Answer-Health@Com
A neurologist would be a start!.Www@Answer-Health@Com