Some antibiotics can cause nerve damage

New research has shown that some popular antibiotics can cause peripheral neuropathy.

Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include pain, numbness, weakness, tingling or burning in the hands, arms, legs or feet.

A study published in the journal Neurology has shown that the risk of peripheral neuropathy is actually doubled in people who have taken fluroquinolone antibiotics. Two common fluoroquinolone antibiotics are ciprofloxin (Cipro) and levofloxin (Levaquin). They are commonly prescribed for urinary tract infections and upper respiratory tract infections.

A lot of people take several courses of antibiotics each year; this can cause serious problems.

Peripheral neuropathy is an extremely common condition and in most cases is caused by diabetes, high alcohol intake, B vitamin deficiencies or as a side effect from chemotherapy. It can cause a great deal of stress and discomfort and interfere with sleep.

Antibiotics can be life saving drugs, but they can also be ineffective and overly prescribed.

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