HIV/AIDS & NeuropathyA

HIV/AIDS & Neuropathy

Painful neuropathy, also called peripheral neuropathy or painful peripheral neuropathy, is a common complication of HIV infection. It is a condition that is related to damaged peripheral nerves and can cause pain ranging from minor discomfort to disabling weakness. For a complete description of neuropathy, please visit neurologychannel.com.

The AIDS virus, as well as many of the HIV-associated infections (e.g., herpes, cytomegalovirus [CMV]), can cause peripheral neuropathy. Fortunately, the use of antiretroviral therapy has greatly reduced the incidence of painful neuropathy resulting from HIV or HIV-associated conditions. However, neuropathy remains an HIV-related problem, as it is a common side effect of antiretroviral medication, especially stavudine, didanosine, and zalcitabine.

In some cases, changing antiretrovirals can help relieve neuropathy or the condition can be treated medically, depending on the exact cause. Antidepressants (e.g., amitryptaline, desipramine, doxepin) have proven to be effective, as have several anti-seizure agents (e.g., gabapentin, lamotrigene, carbamazepine, valproic acid). Anti-seizure drugs usually have fewer side effects than antidepressants.

In addition to changing antiretrovirals and/or prescribing medication, there are a number of other ways to relieve neuropathy pain, including the following:

• Do not wear tight shoe or socks.
• Do not walk or stand for too long.
• Soak the feet or hands in cold water for 15 minutes twice a day, and use a moisturizer.
• Hand and foot massage can increase circulation and help relieve pain.
• Exercise to increase circulation to the hands and feet.