Peripheral Neuropathy TreatmentIrvine, CA

Common Causes of Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy can be genetic or acquired. Acquired neuropathy may result from another disorder or condition (symptomatic) but may also have no underlying cause (idiopathic). Diabetes is the most common cause of chronic peripheral neuropathy in the U.S.; about 60-70 percent of people with diabetes will damage their sensory, motor, or autonomic nerves.

Symptomatic neuropathy has a variety of common causes, including:

• Chronic kidney disease: In dysfunctioning kidneys, an imbalance of salts and chemicals can cause peripheral neuropathy.
• Chronic liver disease
• Guillain-Barré syndrome: a specific type of peripheral neuropathy triggered by infection
• Infections: Shingles, HIV infection, Lyme disease, and viral illnesses can lead to nerve damage
• Injuries: Broken bones and tight plaster casts can put pressure directly on the nerves
• Some autoimmune disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
• Some kinds of cancer, including lymphoma and multiple myeloma

Behavioral and environmental causes of neuropathy include excessive alcohol consumption, exposure to toxins, vitamin deficiencies, and certain medications such as chemotherapy and HIV treatment drugs.

Recovery and Management

Recovery protocol will depend on the type of treatment the patient undergoes. We will continually monitor the patient’s progress throughout the recovery period. It is imperative that patients communicate any changes to their health, including any new medications or symptoms they are facing.

To help manage the condition, we suggest implementing healthier lifestyle choices in everyday life. This includes taking care of the feet (wear soft, loose socks and comfortable shoes), regular exercise, quitting smoking and alcohol, eating healthy and nutritious foods, and monitoring glucose levels. Coupling treatment with lifestyle and behavioral changes gives patients the best possible outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions About Peripheral Neuropathy

What is Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that affects how neurons communicate with the brain and spinal cord. The condition causes numbness, weakness, and increased sensitivity, especially in the hands and feet. A variety of other health conditions can affect and exacerbate peripheral neuropathy.

What is the difference between polyneuropathy and mononeuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy can affect multiple nerves (polyneuropathy) or only one nerve or nerve group (mononeuropathy) at a time. Mononeuropathy is usually the result of damage to a single nerve or nerve group by trauma, injury, local compression, prolonged pressure, or inflammation.

What are the different types of nerves responsible for?

Motor nerves send impulses from the brain and spinal cord to all of the muscles in the body and permit you to do activities like walking, catching a baseball, or moving the fingers to pick something up. Sensory nerves send messages in the other direction - from the muscles back to the spinal cord and the brain. Special sensors in the skin and deep inside the body help people identify if an object is sharp, rough, or smooth, if it is hot or cold, or if a body part is still or in motion. Autonomic nerves control involuntary or semi-voluntary functions, such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and sweating.

What are the most common symptoms of peripheral neuropathy?

Signs or symptoms of peripheral neuropathy vary depending on the cause and the patient’s unique case. Symptoms typically include increased sensitivity to hot and cold sensations; a sharp, jabbing, or electric pain; difficulty sleeping due to feet and leg pain; loss of balance and coordination; muscle weakness; and abnormalities in blood pressure or pulse.

What are some examples of peripheral neuropathy conditions?

There are many types of peripheral neuropathy conditions. Two examples are Carpal tunnel syndrome (a painful wrist and hand disorder often associated with repetitive tasks on a computer keyboard) and Bell's palsy (a facial nerve disorder).