In all forms of neuropathy, there is abnormal stimulation of nerves or damage that results in pain. Peripheral nerves are sensitive conduits that carry impulses from the extremities back to the central nervous system (i.e., the spinal cord and brain). Impulses are transmitted along nerves by changes in the electrical charge of the cell membrane caused by movement of ions such as sodium, potassium, and calcium. Impulses are transmitted between nerves by neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine and substance P, which is responsible for transmitting pain impulses. For protection, most nerves are covered with a thin sheath called myelin, which is made from choline and lipids. The myelin functions like the rubber wrapping around an electrical cord: it insulates the nerve fibers and prevents abnormal transmissions. Depending on the nature of the specific neuropathy, some part of this system breaks down. In diabetic neuropathy, for example, there is a change in the microvascular network that supplies the nerve with nutrients. This lack of blood supply and nutrients causes the nerve to function abnormally. Diabetic neuropathy tends to occur in more than one nerve area (this condition is called polyneuropathy) and may cause loss of sensation and pain that typically worsens at night. In severe cases, diabetics can suffer from a kind of neuropathy called autonomic neuropathy. In this case, the autonomic nervous system, which controls automatic body functions, is affected with possibly serious consequences, including gastrointestinal problems, bladder-emptying problems, abnormal heart rhythms, and even sudden death (El-Atat FA et al 2004). The following supplements have been shown to reduce the pain associated with neuropathy: | The Life Extension Vacations team can be reached by calling 1 800 791 4457 for all your travel needs. For those of you who start planning your next vacation late at night or on weekends, we also have an online booking engine on www.levacations.com for air travel, accommodation and car rentals. It is convenient, quick and available 24 hours a day. Use it to compare rates, book a flight that’s tailored to your travel times, and to make hotel and car reservations. Life Extension Vacations (Operated by Caribbean Islands Travel) Phone: 1-800-791-4457 Email: reservations@levacations.com Office hours of Operation: Mon-Fri 8:30 am to 6:00 pm. Bio-identical hormone therapy (BHRT) is finally getting its day in the sun. Top experts in the field will be revealing their approaches and the treatments they use in their busy practices. You'll understand why their patients love them. These are the same experts who write the books, appear on TV and report to Congress. An opportunity to learn from these physicians is usually open to just doctors at medical conventions. Now you can hear the BHRT World Summit in the comfort of your home! This audio seminar will be presented the evenings of May 14 to 29. We invite you to take advantage of this unique opportunity to hear more then 10 practitioner/experts speak about everything from menopause to prostates, migraines to depression, cancer prevention to thyroid health and many more hormone related conditions. The public wants to learn and the experts are ready to speak. BHRT is improving lives. Click here to see the doctors, their topics and to register. |