What is peripheral neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy means that the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord have been damaged. These nerves act as the body’s signaling system and transmit information about sensation, movement, and automatic bodily functions such as blood pressure and digestion. When the nerves do not function properly, signals can become weaker, incorrect, or stop entirely. This can lead to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or pain. Many describe the sensation as prickling or burning. The symptoms often begin in the feet and gradually spread upward in the legs, but the hands can also be affected.
Common symptoms of peripheral neuropathy
Symptoms can vary from person to person depending on which nerves are affected. It is common to experience numbness or reduced sensation in the feet and hands, which can make it harder to notice injuries or temperature changes. Tingling, often described as “pins and needles,” is also a common early sign.
Pain is common and may feel burning, stabbing, or electric. Some people also experience muscle weakness, which can affect balance or make it more difficult to walk and grip objects. In some cases, the body’s automatic functions are affected, which can cause symptoms such as dizziness, sweating, palpitations, or digestive problems.
Causes of peripheral neuropathy
There are many different causes of peripheral neuropathy. The most common is diabetes, where high blood sugar levels over time damage the nerves. This is called diabetic neuropathy and is a common complication in both type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes
Other causes may include long-term alcohol consumption, which negatively affects the nervous system, as well as deficiencies in important vitamins, especially vitamin B12. Infections such as Lyme disease and HIV can also cause nerve damage. Certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs used in cancer treatment, may cause neuropathy as a side effect.
Autoimmune diseases, where the body’s immune system attacks its own nerves, can also be a cause of peripheral neuropathy. In addition, pressure on nerves, injuries, or repeated strain can contribute to worsening the condition.
Diagnosis and examination
Diagnosis is usually made through a clinical examination. The doctor often begins by asking about your symptoms and general health, followed by a physical examination where sensation, reflexes, and muscle strength are assessed. Blood tests are often used to identify underlying causes, such as diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, or infections. To assess how the nerves function, nerve conduction studies and electromyography (EMG) may be performed, which measure nerve signals and muscle activity. In some cases, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or ultrasound may also be used, especially if there is suspicion of nerve compression or other structural causes. These examinations help ensure an accurate diagnosis and rule out other conditions.
Treatment of peripheral neuropathy
Treatment is tailored to the underlying cause of the nerve damage. If neuropathy is caused by diabetes, it is important to maintain good blood sugar control. In cases of vitamin deficiency, supplements may help, and if alcohol is a contributing factor, reducing consumption can make a significant difference. To relieve pain, specific medications effective against nerve pain are often used. Physiotherapy can improve strength, balance, and mobility, reducing the risk of falls and injuries. In many cases, it is possible to slow disease progression and reduce symptoms, especially if treatment is initiated early. However, if nerve damage has been present for a long time, some symptoms may persist.
When should you seek care?
You should seek medical care if you experience recurring or persistent numbness, tingling, or pain in your hands or feet. It is especially important to seek help if symptoms worsen, affect your balance, or if you experience muscle weakness. Early evaluation increases the chances of identifying the cause and starting appropriate treatment in time.
Can peripheral neuropathy be prevented?
It is not always possible to completely prevent peripheral neuropathy, but there are many things you can do to reduce the risk. Maintaining stable blood sugar levels is crucial if you have diabetes. A nutritious diet with sufficient vitamins, especially B vitamins, is also important. Regular exercise improves circulation and supports nerve health. Limiting alcohol consumption and paying attention to early symptoms can also make a significant difference.
By taking your body’s signals seriously and seeking care early, you can reduce the risk of long-term complications and improve your quality of life.