18/07/2023
Peripheral neuropathy refers to a condition that affects the peripheral nervous system, which includes the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. These nerves are responsible for transmitting signals between the central nervous system and the rest of the body, enabling movement, sensation, and coordination.
When peripheral nerves are damaged or dysfunctional, it can lead to a variety of symptoms that typically affect the extremities, such as the hands, feet, arms, and legs. The severity and specific symptoms can vary depending on which nerves are affected and the underlying cause. Some common symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include:
1 Tingling or numbness: A sensation of pins and needles or a loss of feeling in the affected area.
2 Burning or shooting pain: Persistent pain that may be sharp or stabbing.
3 Weakness or muscle atrophy: Reduced strength and muscle wasting due to nerve signals being disrupted.
4 Sensory disturbances: Reduced ability to feel temperature changes or differentiate between hot and cold.
5 Lack of coordination: Difficulty with balance and fine motor skills.
6 Sensitivity to touch: Feeling discomfort or pain even with light touch.
Peripheral neuropathy can have various causes, including:
1 Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage nerves over time.
2 Autoimmune disorders: Conditions like Guillain-Barré syndrome or chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) involve the immune system attacking nerve tissues.
3 Infections: Certain infections, such as shingles, Lyme disease, or HIV, can lead to neuropathy.
4 Toxins: Exposure to certain toxins, such as heavy metals, chemotherapy drugs, or alcohol, can cause nerve damage.
5 Trauma: Injuries, such as fractures or compression of nerves, can result in neuropathy.
Hereditary factors: Some people may have a genetic predisposition to peripheral neuropathy.