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What Blood Tests Show Nerve Damage?

Published in Medical Tests and Diagnostics 2 mins read

While blood tests can't directly visualize nerve damage, they can reveal clues about nerve health and potential underlying conditions that might be causing nerve damage. Here's how:

1. Measuring Nerve Function Markers

  • Electrolytes: Blood tests for electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and calcium can help identify imbalances that can affect nerve function.
  • Vitamin B12: A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to nerve damage, especially in the peripheral nervous system.
  • Glucose: High blood glucose levels, often associated with diabetes, can damage nerves over time.
  • Thyroid Hormones: Abnormal thyroid function can impact nerve health.

2. Identifying Underlying Conditions

  • Autoimmune Disorders: Blood tests can detect antibodies associated with autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis that can damage nerves.
  • Infections: Certain infections, like Lyme disease or HIV, can affect nerves. Blood tests can identify these infections.
  • Heavy Metal Toxicity: Blood tests can measure levels of heavy metals like lead or mercury, which can damage nerves.

3. Assessing Overall Health

  • Complete Blood Count (CBC): This test can reveal anemia, which can sometimes be caused by nerve damage.
  • Liver Function Tests: Liver problems can affect nerve function, and blood tests can assess liver health.
  • Kidney Function Tests: Kidney problems can affect nerve function, and blood tests can assess kidney health.

Important Note: Blood tests are just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to diagnosing nerve damage. Your doctor will likely also perform a neurological exam, review your medical history, and order other tests like nerve conduction studies or electromyography (EMG) to confirm a diagnosis.

It's crucial to remember that blood tests alone cannot definitively diagnose nerve damage. They can, however, provide valuable information about potential causes and help guide further investigation.

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