Peripheral neuropathy refers to a group of conditions that involve damage to the peripheral nervous system. The peripheral nerves send messages between the central nervous system (CNS)—which is made up of the brain and spinal cord—and other parts of the body.
The peripheral nerves are responsible for sending signals related to muscle movement, circulation, digestion, and other bodily functions. Peripheral neuropathy interferes with these communications, causing the peripheral nerves to stop sending signals, send signals when there shouldn’t be any, or make errors in signaling.
There are more than 100 forms of peripheral neuropathy, including diabetic neuropathy, Guillain-Barré syndrome, and carpal tunnel syndrome.
Estimated number of people in the U.S. with peripheral neuropathy
Types of peripheral neuropathy that have been identified
Percentage of people with diabetes who experience nerve problems
Peripheral neuropathy can develop during a person’s life (called acquired neuropathy) or be genetically inherited. Acquired peripheral neuropathies can develop because of another disorder or have no known cause.
Diabetes is the leading cause of peripheral neuropathy in the U.S. Chronically high blood sugar can cause nerve damage, leading to numbness, sensory pain, bone and joint pain, and blisters or sores on the feet that can become infected. Many people with diabetes develop nerve damage, but it can be prevented or delayed by managing blood sugar levels appropriately and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Other possible causes include:
– Physical injury that causes nerve damage or pressure on the nerves
– Vascular and blood problems that decrease oxygen supply to peripheral nerves
– Infections or autoimmune diseases that attack nerves or surrounding tissues
– Exposure to toxins
– Alcoholism
– Vitamin deficiencies
– Kidney and liver disorders
– Certain types of cancer
Genetic peripheral neuropathies are rare, but it is possible to inherit a genetic mutation that causes neuropathy. Symptoms may appear in infancy or later in young adulthood.
It’s possible to prevent many forms of peripheral neuropathy by avoiding injury, receiving the shingles vaccine if over the age of 50, and committing to lifestyle habits that reduce the risk of diabetes.
Peripheral neuropathy can affect one nerve (mononeuropathy), two or more nerves in different areas (multiple mononeuropathy or mononeuropathy multiplex), or many nerves (polyneuropathy).
Most cases of peripheral neuropathy are polyneuropathy. About 75 percent of polyneuropathies are length-dependent, which means symptoms begin or are most severe in the nerve endings found the farthest from the central nervous system, like those in the feet.
Peripheral neuropathy symptoms will depend on the type of nerves that are affected: motor, sensory, or autonomic nerves.
Because symptoms are so varied, it can be difficult to diagnose peripheral neuropathy. In addition to physical and neurological exams, a doctor will review a person’s medical and family history and take note of any diseases or conditions that may cause nerve damage.
A blood test can indicate some causes of acquired neuropathies, including diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, liver or kidney disorders, infections, or abnormal immune system activity. Genetic tests may be used to diagnose certain genetic forms of neuropathies.
Nerve conduction velocity (NCV) tests and electromyography (EMG) can help determine the type and extent of nerve damage. Nerve and skin biopsies, autonomic testing, and imaging such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans can also provide diagnostic information.
Treatment options for peripheral neuropathy depend on the type of nerve damage and involve managing symptoms and treating any underlying cause. As long as nerve cells have not died, it’s possible for peripheral nerves to regenerate and restore function over time.
If peripheral neuropathy is related to a condition like diabetes or an autoimmune disease, doctors will try to control or treat that condition to manage symptoms, allow nerves to heal, and prevent further damage.
Healthy lifestyle habits—such as eating a balanced diet, exercising, avoiding smoking, and correcting vitamin deficiencies—can promote nerve health and improve symptoms. To help with motor-related symptoms, people may use supportive shoes and braces. Certain medications and alternative treatments like acupuncture and massage can help manage autonomic and sensory symptoms. Cognitive behavioral therapy and other strategies like biofeedback and relaxation therapy may be helpful in coping with neuropathic pain.
Peripheral neuropathy medications are often used to treat other medical conditions, such as depression and epilepsy. These drugs help the brain block pain signals or reduce inappropriate nerve signals. Anesthetics and topical treatments can also help manage pain. In some cases where a nerve is compressed, surgery may be an option to release pressure and allow the nerve to heal.
Current research efforts focus on understanding the genetic mutations that cause neuropathies and the biological mechanisms related to chronic neuropathic pain. Studies also look to identify genetic biomarkers, better understand the regeneration of nerve cell axons, investigate inflammation and autoimmune-related nerve damage, and learn more about how nerves communicate with the brain and muscles. This knowledge can help develop more effective ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat peripheral neuropathies.
Brain and Life: What Is Peripheral Neuropathy?
National Institutes of Health: Peripheral Neuropathy
Mayo Clinic: Peripheral Neuropathy
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