Peripheral neuropathy can start anywhere in the peripheral nervous system, which consists of the nerves that connect the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. However, it most commonly affects the nerves in the hands and feet. This is because these nerves are the longest in the body and are therefore more susceptible to damage. Peripheral neuropathy can start in a single nerve or a group of nerves. When it affects a single nerve, it is called mononeuropathy. When it affects multiple nerves, it is called polyneuropathy.
Causes of peripheral neuropathy
There are many different causes of peripheral neuropathy. Some of the most common causes include:
- Diabetes: Diabetes is the leading cause of peripheral neuropathy in the United States. High blood sugar levels can damage the nerves, especially in the hands and feet.
- Alcoholism: Chronic alcohol abuse can damage the nerves and lead to peripheral neuropathy.
- Vitamin deficiencies: A lack of vitamin B12 and other vitamins can damage the nerves.
- Infections: Certain infections, such as shingles and HIV/AIDS, can cause peripheral neuropathy.
- Autoimmune diseases: Autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, can cause peripheral neuropathy.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs and antiretroviral drugs, can cause peripheral neuropathy.
- Trauma: Physical injuries, such as car accidents and sports injuries, can damage the nerves and lead to peripheral neuropathy.
- Hereditary conditions: Some people are born with genetic mutations that can cause peripheral neuropathy.
Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy
The symptoms of peripheral neuropathy can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet
- Burning or shooting pain in the hands and feet
- Weakness or cramping in the muscles
- Loss of coordination or balance
- Sensitivity to touch
- Changes in skin, hair, or nail growth
- Digestive problems, such as constipation or diarrhea
- Sexual dysfunction
FAQs
Q: Can peripheral neuropathy be cured? A: In many cases, peripheral neuropathy cannot be cured. However, there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms and slow down the progression of the condition. Q: Is peripheral neuropathy hereditary? A: Some types of peripheral neuropathy are hereditary. For example, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is a genetic condition that affects the nerves in the hands and feet. Q: How is peripheral neuropathy diagnosed? A: Peripheral neuropathy is usually diagnosed through a physical exam, nerve conduction studies, and electromyography (EMG). Q: Can peripheral neuropathy be prevented? A: Peripheral neuropathy can sometimes be prevented by managing underlying conditions like diabetes and alcoholism. Eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise can also help prevent peripheral neuropathy. Q: What treatments are available for peripheral neuropathy? A: Treatment for peripheral neuropathy depends on the underlying cause of the condition. Some common treatments include medications, physical therapy, and nerve stimulation.
Treatments for Peripheral Neuropathy
There are several treatments available for peripheral neuropathy, depending on the underlying cause of the condition. Here are some common treatments: Medications: Several medications can be used to manage the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. Pain medications, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and opioids, can help relieve pain. Anti-seizure medications, such as gabapentin and pregabalin, can help reduce nerve pain. Antidepressants, such as amitriptyline and duloxetine, can help relieve pain and improve mood. Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help improve muscle strength, flexibility, and balance. A physical therapist can design a customized exercise program to help manage the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. Nerve stimulation: Nerve stimulation, such as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) and spinal cord stimulation (SCS), can help reduce nerve pain by sending electrical signals to the nerves. Topical treatments: Topical treatments, such as capsaicin cream and lidocaine patches, can help relieve pain and numbness in the affected areas. Lifestyle changes: Making lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and avoiding alcohol and tobacco, can help manage the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. Surgery may sometimes be necessary to relieve the pressure on the nerves or repair damaged nerves. However, surgery is usually only recommended for severe cases of peripheral neuropathy.
Conclusion
Peripheral neuropathy is a common medical condition that can cause a wide range of symptoms, including numbness, tingling, pain, weakness, and balance problems. It can start anywhere in the peripheral nervous system but most commonly affects the nerves in the hands and feet. There are many different causes of peripheral neuropathy, including diabetes, alcoholism, vitamin deficiencies, infections, autoimmune diseases, medications, trauma, and hereditary conditions. While peripheral neuropathy has no cure, treatments are available to manage the symptoms and slow down the condition’s progression. If you are experiencing symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Elevation Health specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of peripheral neuropathy. Reach out to our clinic today to schedule an appointment. You can reach out to our team via phone, email, or web form, and we will get back to you as soon as possible. We look forward to helping you get your life back on track.
