What is Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy refers to disorders affecting the peripheral nervous system. These conditions are characterised by sensory symptoms and weakness in the feet and hands, typically starting distally from the soles and toe tips.

The peripheral nerves encompass sensory, autonomic, and motor divisions, which transmit sensory information to the brain and control motor functions. Autonomic nerves regulate functions like sweating.

Peripheral Neuropathy Symptoms

Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy can manifest as positive sensations such as burning pain, tingling, pins and needles or negative symptoms like numbness and loss of sensation in the feet and hands.

Motor symptoms often include distal weakness, making tasks such as turning keys or unfastening buttons challenging. Longstanding neuropathies may result in distal deformities like clawing.

Peripheral Neuropathy Causes

Peripheral neuropathies can result from various causes, including diabetes mellitus, alcohol abuse, and exposure to toxins like lead, arsenic, or chemotherapy drugs used in cancer treatment.

Infections such as leprosy, hepatitis C (HCV), HIV, and autoimmune diseases like polyarteritis nodosa and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can also lead to neuropathy. Dietary deficiencies of thiamine and vitamin B12 are significant contributing factors.

Peripheral Neuropathy Diagnosis

Diagnosing peripheral neuropathy involves a comprehensive clinical examination by a neurologist. Tests like nerve conduction studies (NCS) are conducted to confirm nerve damage and determine the type of neuropathy.

During NCS, electrodes are placed on the skin to deliver mild electrical impulses that stimulate the nerves, with responses recorded to assess nerve function and identify the presence of spinal cord or brain disorders causing sensory symptoms.

Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment

Treatment strategies for peripheral neuropathy focus on managing underlying causes, alleviating symptoms, and improving quality of life.

This may involve medications to relieve pain (such as analgesics or neuropathic pain medications), physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve coordination, and lifestyle modifications, including dietary changes and regular exercise.

Conclusion

In conclusion, peripheral neuropathy encompasses a range of disorders affecting the peripheral nervous system, characterised by sensory, motor, and autonomic symptoms.

Early diagnosis through clinical examination and specialised tests like NCS is crucial for effective management and to prevent further nerve damage. Treatment aims to address underlying causes and alleviate symptoms, enhancing the overall quality of life for individuals affected by this condition.

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