Peripheral neuropathy is a condition marked by numbness in the extremities, usually starting at the feet and hands. It can also include pain or weakness in these parts of the body. Peripheral neuropathy occurs when there are damaged nerves in your arms, legs, fingers, or toes. The peripheral nervous system helps you sense touch and temperature changes via signals that travel down into your lower limbs from your brain to start this process off. When these nerves become compromised, it leads to a loss of feeling, which could significantly affect your life if left untreated for long. This disorder basically causes problems with everyday activities like walking upstairs due to having no sensation on one side, causing stumbling.
What Causes Peripheral Neuropathy?
There are many different causes of the condition. Some include causes include the following:
• Diabetes
• Alcoholism (heavy drinking) for years
• Some medications
• Hormonal imbalances
What are the Symptoms?
Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy can range from mild to severe, but they are rarely life-threatening. Some of the most common include the following:
• Numbness in the feet or hands
• Burning sensation in the feet or hands that worsens at night
• Loss of balance, poor coordination, falls with injury to arms or legs. A person may
also appear to walk slower or have a “drag foot.”
• Loss of bladder or bowel control, leading to incontinence.
How is Peripheral Neuropathy Diagnosed?
To diagnose peripheral neuropathy, the doctor may perform a physical exam, including blood tests, a neurological examination, and a review of your medical history. All the tests will provide a conclusive analysis of your condition and help the doctor determine the best treatment option for you.
What Treatment Options are Available?
Treatment for peripheral neuropathy is aimed at relieving symptoms and preventing further nerve damage. Treatments include the following:
• Medications for pain and other symptoms
• Physical therapy to improve balance, walking, and coordination. This can help
prevent falls with injury or loss of independence in daily activities.
• Assistive devices such as a cane, walker, or brace may be recommended by your doctor
if you have trouble walking due to nerve damage from the condition.
• Surgery is occasionally performed when all else fails – however, there are risks involved, so it should only happen after significant discussion between patient and doctor about the possible benefits versus the risk of surgery complications.
What Lifestyle Changes Can be Made?
In addition to medication, physical therapy, and assistive devices, there are lifestyle changes that you can make to improve your health, and they include:
• Exercise regularly but avoid high-impact exercises that put stress on the legs, such
as running or aerobics.
• Quit smoking – this will also improve circulation, which can help with nerve pain
and other symptoms caused by peripheral neuropathy.
• Eat a healthy diet low in sugar and high in fiber. Foods like dark green leafy
vegetables and citrus fruits are good for you. Avoid alcohol if possible because
heavy drinking over the years can lead to peripheral neuropathy.
If you suspect you have peripheral neuropathy, you should contact your doctor right away. They will guide you on the next steps for diagnosis, treatment options, and any lifestyle changes needed based on the diagnostic outcome.
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