ABOUT THE DISEASE

Peripheral nervous system refers to the network of nerves that transmits information to and from the brain and spinal cord to all parts of the body. A disturbance in the functioning of these nerves is termed as peripheral neuropathy or peripheral nerve disorder. If multiple nerves are involved, it is termed as polyneuropathy.

There are many types of peripheral neuropathy, as those occurring due to diabetes; genetic predispositions, exposure to toxic chemicals, alcoholism, malnutrition, infections, autoimmune disorders, injury (eg. Brachial plexus injury), nerve compression (eg. Carpal tunnel syndrome, thoracic outlet syndrome); certain medications such as those used to treat cancer and HIV/AIDS.

SYMPTOMS

• • numbness, prickling or tingling in the toes or fingers which may spread up to the feet or hands
• • burning, freezing, throbbing and/or shooting pain that is often worse at night
• • sensation of wearing an invisible "glove" or "sock"
• • extreme sensitivity to touch
• • loss of balance and coordination
• • muscle weakness
• • unusual sweating

CAUSES

It may be inherited or acquired with a variety of underlying causes, like :

Diabetes, hereditary disorders, infections, inflammation, auto-immune diseases, protein abnormalities, exposure to toxic chemicals, poor nutrition, kidney failure, chronic alcoholism, and certain medications. In some cases, the cause of neuropathy remains unknown, called as idiopathic neuropathy.

Peripheral neuropathies may be caused by axonal damage or demyelination or a combination of both.

DIAGNOSIS

- Neurological evaluation
- Electromyography (EMG)
- Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV) Test
- Quantitative Sensory Testing (QST)
- Autonomic Testing
- Nerve / Skin / Muscle / Tissue Biopsy
- Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap)
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- CAT Scan

TREATMENT METHODS

The treatment of peripheral neuropathy varies based on the underlying cause.

Symptomatic treatment options include medication (analgesics, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, narcotics, etc), transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation therapy, application of topical capsacin/lidocain, Nerve Block, etc. Surgical intervention may be needed in cases like carpal tunnel syndrome.

Following healthy lifestyle, avoiding exposure to toxins, cessation of smoking, exercising, eating a balanced diet, and limiting or avoiding alcohol consumption can reduce the effects of peripheral neuropathy. Regular exercise can help reduce cramps, prevent muscle wasting and improve muscle strength.

You may also like to learn about:

Diabetes mellitus
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Numbness
Alcoholism
Kidney/Renal failure
Diabetic Foot