What is Peripheral Neuropathy? Understanding Symptoms and Causes
Peripheral neuropathy affects millions of Americans, yet many suffer in silence without understanding the condition. It occurs when damage to your peripheral nerves disrupts communication between your brain, spinal cord, and the rest of your body.
What is Peripheral Neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition resulting from damage to the peripheral nervous system. This system includes all the nerves outside your brain and spinal cord, which control sensations, movements, and automatic functions like blood pressure regulation. When these nerves are damaged, it can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and a diminished quality of life.
Common Causes of Peripheral Neuropathy:
Diabetes: The leading cause, accounting for nearly 60% of cases in the U.S.
Nutritional Deficiencies: Particularly deficiencies in B vitamins, which are essential for nerve health.
Alcoholism: Prolonged alcohol use can damage nerves over time.
Chemotherapy and Certain Medications: These can have toxic effects on nerves.
Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis can attack nerves.
Infections: Viral and bacterial infections, such as Lyme disease or shingles, may result in nerve damage.
Trauma or Injury: Accidents that compress or sever nerves.
Symptoms to Watch For:
Peripheral neuropathy often begins subtly, with tingling or numbness in the hands and feet. Over time, you may experience:
Sharp, Burning Pain: Pain that may worsen at night.
Muscle Weakness: A lack of strength, particularly in the extremities.
Sensitivity to Touch: Even light contact can feel excruciating.
Loss of Balance or Coordination: Increased risk of falls.
According to a study published in The Journal of Neurology, early intervention can slow or even reverse nerve damage in certain cases. This makes recognizing the symptoms and seeking treatment essential. And, why we encourage our patients to explore The Active Nerve Method.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore the Symptoms
Left untreated, peripheral neuropathy can lead to permanent nerve damage and debilitating conditions like ulcers or infections, which could result in amputations. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for halting progression and improving outcomes.
If you suspect neuropathy, take the first step toward relief. Call us today at 609-886-8585 to schedule your comprehensive neuropathy scan and learn about our Active Nerve Method.
