Peripheral neuropathy, a result of damage to your peripheral nerves, often causes weakness, numbness and pain, usually in your hands and feet. It can also affect other areas of your body.
Your peripheral nervous system sends information from your brain and spinal cord (central nervous system) to the rest of your body. Peripheral neuropathy can result from traumatic injuries, infections, metabolic problems, inherited causes and exposure to toxins. One of the most common causes is diabetes mellitus.
People with peripheral neuropathy generally describe the pain as stabbing, burning or tingling. In many cases, symptoms improve, especially if caused by a treatable condition. Medications can reduce the pain of peripheral neuropathy.
Peripheral neuropathy care at Mayo Clinic
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Every nerve in your peripheral system has a specific function, so symptoms depend on the type of nerves affected. Nerves are classified into:
Signs and symptoms of peripheral neuropathy might include:
If autonomic nerves are affected, signs and symptoms might include:
Peripheral neuropathy can affect one nerve (mononeuropathy), two or more nerves in different areas (multiple mononeuropathy) or many nerves (polyneuropathy). Carpal tunnel syndrome is an example of mononeuropathy. Most people with peripheral neuropathy have polyneuropathy.
Seek medical care right away if you notice unusual tingling, weakness or pain in your hands or feet. Early diagnosis and treatment offer the best chance for controlling your symptoms and preventing further damage to your peripheral nerves.
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Not a single disease, peripheral neuropathy is nerve damage caused by a number of conditions. Causes of neuropathies include:
In a number of cases, no cause can be identified (idiopathic).
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Peripheral neuropathy has many potential causes. Besides a physical exam, which may include blood tests, diagnosis usually requires:
Your doctor may order tests, including:
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Complications of peripheral neuropathy can include:
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The best way to prevent peripheral neuropathy is to manage medical conditions that put you at risk, such as diabetes, alcoholism or rheumatoid arthritis.
For example:
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Some people with peripheral neuropathy try complementary treatments for relief. Although researchers haven't studied these techniques as thoroughly as they have most medications, the following therapies have shown some promise:
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To help you manage peripheral neuropathy:
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Peripheral neuropathy risk factors include:
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com
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