Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy occurs when the peripheral nerves that send brain signals to the arms, hands, legs, and feet become damaged. The result is a loss of feeling and numbness to the appendages.
Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy can often be painful and uncomfortable.
Causes of Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy can be caused by any number of things. The tingling or pain symptoms of peripheral neuropathy can be due to:
- Diabetes
- Traumatic injuries
- Exposure to toxins
- Metabolic problems
- Infections
Though any one of these may cause peripheral neuropathy, the most common cause of neuropathy is diabetes. At least half of all diabetics develop diabetic neuropathy.
Symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy results in numbness in your hands and feet due to nerve damage. Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include:
- Burning
- Tingling
- Loss of sensation
- Pins and needles
- Inability to feel pain, heat, or cold
- Dry skin
- Deformed feet and toes
Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy can be prevented by carefully managing any condition that may put you at risk and avoiding things that can cause nerve damage such as repetitive motions, cramped positions and toxic chemicals.
Treat Symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy
Treatment for symptoms of peripheral neuropathy should be aimed at managing the condition that has caused them. The goal of this process is to repair as much damage as possible and relieve symptoms. Peripheral neuropathy treatment should be determined by your doctor or health care provider after he or she pinpoints the cause.
