The signs and symptoms of peripheral neuropathy
The nerves outside the brain and spinal cord are affected by peripheral neuropathy. Depending on the type of peripheral neuropathy you have, your symptoms may vary. Examples of common symptoms include: (3)
Pain
Damage to the peripheral nerves causes peripheral neuropathy, which can result in a variety of symptoms. Pain is one of the most common symptoms or complaints, and it can be severe and incapacitating. The individual may experience discomfort when touching something or when pressure is applied to the skin. This occurs as a result of injury to the peripheral nerves, which transmit messages from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. Pain is frequently the first sign of peripheral neuropathy, and it can have a substantial impact on quality of life.
It can be difficult to treat the pain associated with peripheral neuropathy, as it does not always respond well to conventional methods. Some individuals find respite through medication, while others seek relief through alternative therapies. Nonetheless, finding an effective treatment can be difficult.
A feeling of numbness
Numbness is a prevalent symptom of peripheral neuropathy, and it can be very annoying. It can affect any body part, but the hands and feet are most commonly affected. The affected areas may experience tingling or numbness and have diminished sensation. This can make ordinary tasks such as walking and lifting up objects difficult.
The underlying cause of numbness brought on by peripheral neuropathy varies from person to person, but is typically diabetes, intoxication, or vitamin B12 deficiency. Other causes include infections, autoimmunity, and toxic exposure.
Sensation of tingling
A prevalent symptom of peripheral neuropathy is tingling, which is also known as a pins-and-needles sensation. It may feel as though something is crawling on your skin or that you have ants in your clothes. Tingling can occur anywhere on the body, but the hands and feet are most commonly affected. It is not always obvious what causes tingling in peripheral neuropathy, but it may be related to nerve damage or dysfunction. This damage can disrupt normal nerve signals and result in aberrant sensations like tingling.
muscle spasms
Up to fifty percent of diabetic patients experience muscle cramping. It is unclear why peripheral neuropathy can cause muscle cramps, but it may have something to do with how nerve signals are transmitted to the muscles. When these signals are disrupted, the muscles may not receive the proper instructions, resulting in cramping. In addition, peripheral neuropathy can cause muscle weakness and paralysis, which can result in cramping.
There are a number of things you can do to alleviate muscle cramping caused by peripheral neuropathy.
Loss of feeling
Loss of sensation in the lower extremities can make it difficult to walk and maintain balance, and increase the risk of injury. There are numerous causes of peripheral neuropathy, including diabetes, cancer treatments, autoimmune disorders, and nerve damage caused by trauma or surgery. Treatment options will be determined by the underlying cause.
Over time, some individuals with peripheral neuropathy experience a progressive loss of sensation. Others may experience a sudden loss of sensation due to an injury or illness. Typically, the symptoms vary and even evolve over time.
Delayed wound recovery
Due to diminished blood flow and sensation, individuals with peripheral neuropathy may have difficulty healing lesions. Numerous diseases and conditions, including diabetes, cancer, and autoimmune disorders, can contribute to delayed wound repair. When neuropathy is the cause of delayed wound healing, a decrease in blood flow and sensation is usually to blame. This can result in an inability to feel pain, warmth, or other sensations required for wound healing.
In addition, neuropathy can reduce the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the lesion site. This can delay wound healing and lead to infection or even worse complications. It is possible to treat peripheral neuropathy with medication, lifestyle modifications, or surgery. Visit your doctor to determine the underlying cause and receive the appropriate treatment if you are experiencing delayed wound healing.
Common infections
Frequent infections are one of the most prevalent symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. This is due to the fact that when nerves are damaged, they are unable to transmit messages as effectively, which can have an effect on the immune system. As a consequence, individuals with peripheral neuropathy are more susceptible to illness and infection.
Multiple factors can contribute to peripheral neuropathy, including diabetes, alcoholism, and vitamin deficiencies. Depending on the disease’s cause, treatment may include medication, physical therapy, or surgery. If you experience any symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, you should seek medical attention immediately, as the condition can lead to severe health complications if left untreated.
feet scalding
Burning feet are caused by peripheral neuropathy, specifically diabetes-related neuropathy. Burning sensations in the feet can be caused by a variety of factors, including nerve injury and inadequate blood circulation. If your feet are blistering, it is essential that you see a doctor to determine the cause. In some instances, peripheral neuropathy may be a transitory condition that responds to treatment and resolves itself. In other cases, however, it may indicate a more critical condition requiring long-term care.
Excessive perspiration
In peripheral neuropathy, excessive perspiration occurs because the neurons that regulate perspiration are frequently affected and damaged. This symptom can be humiliating and inconvenient. It can interfere with both your daily activities and your social life. There are, however, treatments (supplements and medications) that can reduce or eliminate this symptom.
Consult your physician regarding treatment options if peripheral neuropathy is causing you to perspire excessively. There are numerous available treatments, and you may discover one that is effective for you.
Protein depletion
Muscle loss is a prevalent complication of peripheral neuropathy. This occurs due to injury to the nerves that control muscle movement, resulting in diminished muscle function and strength. This can make it challenging to walk, ascend stairs, and engage in other activities requiring muscle movement. Peripheral neuropathy is incurable, but there are remedies available to help manage symptoms.
a lack of bladder control
Many individuals with peripheral neuropathy are unaware that this nerve injury can also lead to issues with bladder control. Poor bladder control is one of the primary symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, which can contribute to leakage, dribbling, and even urinary incontinence. This occurs because damaged nerves are unable to deliver the correct signals to the bladder muscles indicating when to empty.
If you are experiencing problems with bladder control, it is imperative that you see a doctor immediately. Available medical and surgical treatments can help alleviate your symptoms.
