Neurology-Online

Duration of an inflammation of the nerves

introduction

Nerve inflammation is usually painful and debilitating, which is why you want to get well again as soon as possible.
The duration of a nerve inflammation is very variable and depends on various factors such as location and cause of the inflammation. An early start of therapy is always recommended. It shortens the duration of the complaints and has a positive effect on the prognosis.

How long does a nerve inflammation basically last?

It is not possible to make a general statement about the duration of a nerve inflammation, since many different diseases can be triggers.
In addition, the localization of the inflammation affects the healing process. Of course, the other physical condition of the person concerned also plays a decisive role.
In principle, however, it can be said that an early start of treatment and consistent therapy have a positive effect on the course of the disease. Multiple sclerosis always causes inflammation of the nerves. However, with today's therapy options, nerve inflammation can be treated better. For other diseases in which nerve inflammation occurs, such as Guillain-Barre syndrome, the inflammation heals within a few weeks to months. A similar duration is also seen in vestibular neuritis - an inflammation of the nerve on the equilibrium nerve, which is accompanied by severe vertigo. For other causes of nerve inflammation, even a few days of successful therapy can be enough for a cure.

Length of sick leave

The length of the sick leave depends on the cause and extent of the nerve inflammation.
In addition, the decisive factor is how far the affected person is restricted by the inflammation and to what extent it is even possible for them to pursue their job. A construction worker may be on sick leave longer than a secretary due to the inflammation of the nerves. The doctor has to decide individually how long a sick leave is appropriate. In addition, the individual course of the illness influences the length of the sick leave.

Measures to shorten the duration

It is important to consult a doctor as soon as the complaint begins, as the early start of therapy has a positive effect on the course of the disease.
Of course, the doctor's therapy instructions should then be followed. Attention should be paid to taking the right medication and attending physical therapy appointments. It is also important to give the body enough rest so that it can concentrate on fighting inflammation. This also includes avoiding stress and other psychological stress. Last but not least, you need patience in order to recover completely and not to stress yourself again too soon. Depending on the cause of the inflammation, other measures can promote the healing process.

Also read our article: These symptoms will help you recognize inflammation of the nerves

Duration of nerve inflammation in different parts of the body

Ribs

The cause of nerve inflammation on the ribs is often shingles, which is accompanied by blistering and reddening of the skin surface and pain.
Shingles usually heals completely in 2-4 weeks. Therapy should be started within the first 2-3 days after the onset of symptoms to avoid complications. Acyclovir, a virustatic, is used as the standard drug.
Possible complications are persistent pain for 4 weeks or a generalization of the disease with involvement of internal organs.

face

The pain in the face is often very severe. They can be triggered by chewing, swallowing, or a draft on the skin of the face. Pain in the teeth is also possible.
The cause is often an infection of a cranial nerve that supplies the face, the so-called trigeminal neuralgia. In such a case, the therapy is medicated. Antiviral drugs help with inflammation caused by viruses. With bacterial inflammation, antibiotics are prescribed. As a rule, an improvement occurs very poorly with consistent therapy. However, with nerve inflammation in the face, there is a risk that the pain will become chronic despite successful treatment of the inflammation, i.e. continue to exist. Therefore early therapy is important.

More information on this topic:

Nerve inflammation on the face
The causes of toothache

move

A common cause is radiculitis, inflammation of the nerve root caused by viruses or bacteria, or Guillain-Barre syndrome.
The duration of the inflammation varies depending on the pathogen. In Guillan-Barre syndrome, after a previous infection, e.g. a respiratory tract infection, the immune system attacks your own nerves and an inflammatory reaction occurs. There is a classic course. The symptoms worsen for two weeks, the symptoms remain constant for two weeks and the symptoms recede for two weeks. In a few cases, significantly longer courses are also possible.

Read more on this topic: Inflammation of the nerves on the back

leg

The symptoms of nerve inflammation in the leg usually subside within a few days to weeks and have a positive course.
The sciatic nerve is often affected. This is a large nerve that pulls from the lower back into the legs. He can also be irritated for mechanical reasons. In such a case, an operation to alleviate the symptoms may be necessary.

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