HIV-associated distal sensory polyneuropathy is the most common nerve problem in people living with HIV. It usually causes burning, numbness or pain in the feet. It can come from HIV itself or from some older HIV medicines (such as stavudine and didanosine), which are now rarely used.
Treatment
- Keep taking your HIV treatment (ART) and talk to your HIV doctor about your symptoms; a medicine review may help
- Check other causes: diabetes, B12, alcohol
- A high-concentration capsaicin patch reduced pain in a controlled trial in HIV neuropathy (Simpson, 2008)
- Other neuropathic pain medicines work less reliably in HIV neuropathy; your doctor can guide trials
- Foot care, exercise and good footwear
Burning, numb or tingling feet for months? Get the free guide and a doctor review of your scan.
Supportive regenerative care
Regenerative approaches such as PRP or stem cells are minimally invasive supportive options for nerve symptoms. They do not treat or cure HIV and are considered only alongside your HIV specialist's care.
Symptoms
- Burning, aching or numbness starting in the toes and soles
- Pain worse at night or when walking
- Sensitivity to light touch, such as bedsheets
Causes
- HIV itself affecting the nerves
- Older HIV medicines (d-drugs) that are now rarely used
- Other causes common in anyone: diabetes, B12 deficiency, alcohol
Burning, numb or tingling feet for months? Get the free guide and a doctor review of your scan.
Treatment options
| Option | Role |
|---|---|
| Stem cell treatmentRecommended | Supportive treatment aiming to help nerves recover, alongside ART |
| Capsaicin 8% patch | Reduced pain in a controlled trial |
| Medicine review with your HIV doctor | Removes nerve-toxic drugs where possible |
| Foot care and exercise | Protects feet and balance |
Living well
Modern ART lets people with HIV live long, active lives. Treating neuropathy improves sleep, walking and mood, and is worth raising at every HIV clinic visit.
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