Hi, I haven't really introduced myself and I haven't spent much time on here since I first found this site. I guess I try not to think about these things but some questions I can't get out of my head.
My name is Stephanie. I'm 38yrs old. I have had SMF for 22 years at least. The list goes on but for right now I'll stick with this. It started with blood pressure symptoms in my teens, bladder symptoms in early 20's, loss of feeling in a few places and pins and needles all over by mid 20's.
I've always had a slow progression until recently. My hands and feet became extremely symptomatic. My skin felt as if it had been scraped off of parts of my hands, my palms were burning, the muscles cramping and nerve pain running down arms and legs. When I pushed on the affected area, pain radiated. The more I tried to use these body parts the worse it got.
It only lasted for a day but then it returned and has stayed for over a week now. I'm scared this is permanent. It has calmed down but hasn't went away. None of these symptoms are new, they just haven't all been at once in all limbs.
I guess my question is, has anyone else had a flare like this and did it go away after awhile or is this permanent? My PM doc was no help and I don't really have anyone treating me for the SFN. I have different docs for different symptoms. Thanks for any help anyone can offer.

WELCOME to NT! You've come to a wonderful place of caring and good info.

Here is the link to get you to the Peripheral Neuropthy forum:

http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/fo...sprune=-1&f=20

Be sure to take a look at the top of the page called the "PN, tips, resources, etc" VERY helpful stuff.

It's great to have you here !

Caring,
Rae

Hi Stephanie,

Welcome!!

Being that you have had slow progressing problems for a long time and now suddenly have a flare, I wonder if you've been evaluated for autoimmune disease? What about diabetes and have you had a recent glucose tolerance test? B12 is also an important factor that should be looked at.

You mentioned a 'list' that could go on. If you have other unexplained symptoms, you might want to share them since they may be just as important to the bigger picture as the burning/neuropathy symptoms.

I see you've already been directed to the PN forum.

Stephanie,

Hello and welcome to NeuroTalk. Happy to see you have come to be with us. Just let us know if we can be of any help.

There are great number and caring fellow members here, just let us know how we can assist you. Our shoulders are here for support in many ways. You see we are are supportive and relaxing place to be.

Again welcome, looking forward to seeing you around. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Darlene

My neuropathy started when I was pre-menopausal at about 45. It was a burning sensation from my lower back to middle of the back for a long time and would come on like hot flashes do some women. (I do not have hot flashes). The sensation continued to grow in area until in my late 50's (and in menopause) until the sensation encircled my entire torso. Now in my early 60's (post menopausal) the sensation has subsided somewhat but still sufficient to wake me in the night. It hits like hot flashes do, last about 10 to 15 minutes. I think it is hormonal but I don't know what natural herbs to take to counter the effect. I have tried OTC Estroven but was discouraged to use it by a RN. Does anyone have any suggestions for a natural remedy as I won't take HRTs thru prescription? Thanks!

I would try an ice pack on your lower back twice a day for 20 minutes. The family of herpes viruses lives in the dorsal roots of the spine, and can activate at times of "stress" or body changes. Ice will put them into a sleeping state if they are trying to activate. They can also be stimulated by a diet too high in arginine and low in lysine. So taking a gram or 2 of lysine daily may help.

Pain that starts in a dermatome fashion, moving from the spine around the torso is typical of shingles. It can occur anywhere. I had mine down my right arm. (from working midnights, which my doctor made me stop). Sometimes there is just pain, with no rash.

Sandy,

It is great to have you come and be with us. You will fine a great number of dear friends to listen when you are in need of ears. Please, just let us know how we can help you out. You will find out we are supportive and relaxing place.

Please keep us up to date on your situation. Again welcome, looking forward to seeing you around. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

I don't think it is shingles. I have put up with this torso sensation for too many years although I have never had it diagnosed. It is not unmanageable.
I will look into lysine. I have decided to try black cohosh to see if that helps. Thanks for the suggestions.