How a Problem with Your Thyroid Can Lead to Neuropathy

Nerve issues like neuropathy, could have a surprising cause: thyroid disease. Up to 60% of patients with thyroid disorders also have neuromuscular disorders, such as neuropathy, according to research. Here at Neurology Specialists of Albuquerque, our board-certified neurologist, Timothy Ownbey, DO, has extensive experience diagnosing, treating, and managing neurological disorders and disease. 

Dr. Ownbey provides comprehensive in-office evaluations to identify the cause of nerve issues like neuropathy.  For patients with neuropathy, a thorough thyroid workup as part of the evaluation process can be a wise decision.

Importance of a comprehensive evaluation

The brain and spinal cord transmits information to the rest of the body through the peripheral nervous system. Issues such as diabetes, infections, nutrient deficiencies, and metabolic issues can cause neuropathy symptoms, such as stabbing, burning, or tingling sensations. If you have any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to have a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider to reach an accurate diagnosis. 

The link between thyroid dysfunction and nerve health

The thyroid is a small gland situated at the base of the neck, and it has a big job to do. It produces hormones that control metabolism, and it impacts every cell in the body. When it’s working as it should, its duties go off without a hitch. However, problems arise when it isn’t able to do its job.

Neuropathy is a lesser known sign of thyroid dysfunction. Nerves depend on efficient thyroid function to work properly. Long-term, or severe, untreated thyroid dysfunction can lead to nerve damage.

Low and elevated thyroid can lead to neuropathy

With hypothyroidism (when your thyroid hormone levels are too low), your body’s metabolism slows down, and this can result in reduced circulation to your nerves, which rely on nutrient-rich blood. 

A lack of thyroid hormone can slow down nerve signaling, making it difficult for your brain to communicate effectively with your muscles and skin. This disruption in communication can lead to symptoms like numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness, which are all hallmarks of peripheral neuropathy.

On the other side of the spectrum, hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid) is also linked to neuropathy. In cases of hyperthyroidism, the thyroid produces more of its hormones than the body needs, and this can cause  nerve damage over time.

Thyroid autoimmune diseases

Autoimmune diseases of the thyroid, such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves’ disease, are another link between thyroid dysfunction and neuropathy. In these conditions, your immune system mistakenly attacks your thyroid gland. When the immune system is overly active, it may also start attacking your peripheral nerves, leading to neuropathy. This is known as autoimmune neuropathy and can cause severe symptoms if not properly managed.

Treatment may improve both conditions

If you’re experiencing symptoms of neuropathy, it’s essential to seek medical evaluation. Blood tests can assess thyroid hormone levels and help determine whether your neuropathy may be related to a thyroid imbalance. 

Addressing the underlying thyroid issue may improve your neuropathy pain. A case study found that treating hypothyroidism with thyroid hormone replacement resulted in an improvement in the severity and intensity of neuropathy pain.

A path toward relief

Scheduling a consultation is the first step in the path to getting the answers, treatment, and relief you deserve. If you suspect thyroid issues are behind your neuropathy symptoms, talk to Dr. Ownbey about it. Individualized treatment is a phone call away. Contact our Albuquerque, New Mexico, office to get started.