I am wondering how many of the idiopathic PN people here had toxic substances tests done!

My Neuro didn't suggest one at all which is surprising seeing that toxicity is one of the frequently mentioned things that can cause PN. However my Chiropractor suggested having a Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis done. I received the results the other day and it is a fascinating document.

Of the Toxic elements tested, only my mercury level was elevated and then not in the toxic zone. However in my Nutrient Element analysis my copper level was way too high and sodium way too low, with a lot of other imbalances in between. The interesting thing they said about having very low sodium levels is that it produces or contributes to hypochlorhydria (a lack of gastric acids in the stomach) which of course in turn diminishes effective absorption of many food nutrients.

Hypochlorhydria also occurs when people take proton pump inhibitors such as Nexium or Omeprazole etc. which of course can contribute to Vit B12 deficiency.