Peripheral neuropathy occurs as a result of nerve damage between the spine and the brain (peripheral nerves) usually causing the sensation of weakness, numbness and pain that is typically felt in the hands and feet. It could be a cause of concern in other areas and bodily functions like digestion or urination, circulation, and many more.
The peripheral nervous system transmits information from your brain and spinal cord (central nervous system) to the rest of your body. The peripheral nerves transmit sensory signals to your central nervous system.
Peripheral neuropathy may be caused by traumatizing injury or metabolic disorders, as well as genetic causes as well as exposure to harmful toxins. The most frequently cited causes is diabetes.
Patients suffering with peripheral neuropathy generally complain of burning, stabbing , or sensations of burning, tingling or stabbing. In many cases, the symptoms can ease, particularly when the cause is an illness that can be treated. Medical treatments can alleviate the pain of peripheral neuropathy.
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Symptoms
Every nerve in the peripheral system is responsible for specific functions, so symptoms differ depending on the kind of nerves affected. Nerves are classified into:
Sensory nerves that detect the sensation of pain and temperature or even the sensation of touching the skin
Motor nerves regulate the movements of muscles
Autonomic nerves manage processes such as blood pressure sweat, heart rate , as well as bladder function.
The signs and symptoms of peripheral neuropathy may include:
It can start to feel numb along with burning or tingling in your feet or hands that may then be felt in your legs and arms
A sharp, bleeding or jabbing burning or throbbing pain
Extremely sensitive to contact
The discomfort that is caused by actions that shouldn’t be causing discomfort, for instance, discomfort in your feet when you’re trying to put your the weight on them or you’re wrapped in blankets
Lack of coordination and the danger of falling
- Muscle weakness
It’s like you’re wearing socks or gloves However, you’re not.
The motor nerves might be affected.
When the nerves of autonomic origin are affected, the symptoms and signs could include:
- Heat intolerance
Insufficient sweating or not in the right position to sweat
Bowel, bladder or digestive problems
Pressure drops in blood and can lead to dizziness or lightheadedness.
Peripheral neuropathy may be a concern for the nerve that is located in one region (mononeuropathy) and numerous nerves that are located in various regions (multiple Mononeuropathy) or for a range of nerves (polyneuropathy). Carpal tunnel syndrome could be an excellent example of mononeuropathy. Most people who suffer from peripheral neuropathy are suffering from polyneuropathy.
When do you need to see an ophthalmologist?
See a doctor immediately if you notice unusually strong tingling, weakness or pain in your feet or hands. The prompt diagnosis and treatment will give you the greatest chance of managing these symptoms as well as preventing injuries to peripheral nerves.
Causes
The cause is many different illnesses. The conditions that trigger peripheral neuropathy include:
Autoimmune disorders.
They include Sjogren’s Syndrome, Lupus Guillain Barre syndrome and rheumatoid arthritis chronic inflammation vasculitis and demyelinating polyneuropathy.
The diabetes disease.
This is by far the most frequently reported reason. When it comes to people who suffer from diabetes, more than half of them will be diagnosed as having some form of neuropathy.
The . They include certain bacterial or viral diseases, such as Lyme disease, Epstein-Barr virus, hepatitis B as well as C and leprosy, diphtheria and HIV.
Inheritable disorders.
Disorders like Charcot-Marie Tooth Disease are hereditary neuropathy types.
tumors.
Cancerous (malignant) or non-cancerous (benign) can develop on these nerves, or even on them. Polyneuropathy could also occur due to cancers caused from the immune system in the body. This is a kind of degenerative disorder referred to as paraneoplastic disorders.
Bone Marrow Disorders.
This includes an unnatural blood-forming protein (monoclonal Gammopathies) which is a form of bone cancer (myeloma) and lymphoma, as well as the rare disease called amyloidosis.
Other ailments.
They include liver disease in kidneys connective tissue disorders, and an inactive thyroid (hypothyroidism).
Other neuropathies could result from:
Addiction.
Dietary choices made by people who are alcoholics may cause vitamin deficiencies.
Exposition to harmful substances.
Toxic chemicals include industrial chemicals and heavy metals such as lead and mercury.
Medicines.
Certain drugs, specifically those that are used to fight cancer (chemotherapy) can cause peripheral neuropathy.
trauma that causes tension to nerves.
Injury, for example, caused by crashes in motor vehicles, falls, or injuries sustained during sports can cause injuries and even harm to the peripheral nerves. Pressure on the nerves can result from wearing a cast, crutches, or repeating a movement like typing a couple of times.
Vitamin insufficiencies
B vitamins – which comprise B-1 B-6, B-12 as well as B-1vitamin E and niacin – are crucial for maintaining your nerves’ health.
Risk factors
The main risk factors for peripheral nerve disease include:
The chance to develop diabetes increased in the event that sugar levels aren’t effectively controlled
Alcohol misuse
Vitamin deficiencies, particularly B vitamins
Infections like Lyme disease, shingles and Epstein Barr virus Hepatitis B as well as C and HIV
Autoimmune diseases, like the rheumatoid or lupus joint which occur because your body’s immune system attacks your own tissues
Thyroid, kidney, or liver conditions
Exposure to the Toxins
Motions that are repetitive similar to those needed for specific jobs.
An ancestor’s history of neuropathy
Complications
The acute symptoms of peripheral neuropathy can include:
Burns and skin. You might not experience any temperature fluctuations or pain in the areas of your body which arenumb.
The disease. Your feet and other areas that aren’t feeling could be injured and you don’t be aware of it. Be sure to check these areas often and repair minor injuries before becoming infected, specifically if you have diabetes.
can be triggered by falls. Weakness and loss of sensation may be linked to balance issues or falling.
Prevention
Control the terms under
The most effective way to prevent the developing in peripheral neuropathy is by treating ailments that put the patient at risk, such as diabetes, alcoholism or rheumatoid arthritis.
Make a conscious choice for a healthy way of life
These exercises aid in the maintenance of your nerves.
A diet high in fruits, vegetables as well as whole grain, and protein sources that are low in fat to maintain your nerves. Protect against vitamin B12 deficiency through taking fish and animal products eggs, in addition to low-fat dairy products and cereals enriched by Vitamin B12. If you’re vegan, vegetarian , or vegetarian cereals that have fortification could be an excellent sources of Vitamin B12 however, you must consult with your physician on supplements for B12.
Regularly exercise regularly. With your doctor’s approval, try to perform at least 30 minutes to an hour of exercise at least 3 times per week.
Be aware of the things that can cause nerve damage, including repetitive motions and straining positions that put tension on the nerves and expose them to harmful chemicals, smoking or drinking excessively.
