By Barbara Pierce
Neuropathy is a common disorder. It affects many of us.
“Neuropathy is common. I see it regularly; I see it every day,” said neurologist Lev Goldiner, who practices at Slocum-Dickson Medical Group.
Neuropathy is a broad term to describe conditions that affect the peripheral nervous system.
Peripheral neuropathy is the most common type of neuropathy. The peripheral nervous system is a network of nerves that branches out from the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) to connect with the rest of the body.
Peripheral refers to nerves located outside the central nervous system, while neuropathy combines the Greek words “neuron” (nerve) and “pathos” (affliction), meaning “nerve damage” or “nerve disease.” Therefore, peripheral neuropathy is a condition where the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord [the peripheral nerves] are damaged, leading to disrupted signals throughout the body.
“The further the nerves are away from the body, the greater the likelihood of developing neuropathy,” Goldiner added.
That is why symptoms typically start in the feet. Symptoms also may develop in the hands. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a type of peripheral neuropathy.
We asked Goldiner what is important for us to know about peripheral neuropathy.
1. What are the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy?
“Symptoms include lack of sensation or hypo-sensation, poor balance,” Goldiner said.
Also, tingling or numbness, a burning sensation, sharp pains, being unusually sensitive to touch and having difficulty sensing temperature or pain. Any of these in the feet or hands could be warning signs of neuropathy.
Symptoms often worsen during the night.
2. Is it serious?
“Yes, it’s serious,” said Goldiner. “Serious because it can lead to a foot ulcer, an infection that can be very bad and can cause the loss of your foot. Also, it can cause loss of balance. Balance is an issue, because of the risk of falls that can cause permanent damage.”
Peripheral neuropathy is a serious condition, but it is important to note that not all cases are severe. The severity and potential complications depend on the underlying cause and the extent of nerve damage.
3. What are the causes of peripheral neuropathy?
“Diabetes is a common cause,” he said. Nearly 60% of diabetics have some form of nerve damage, according to The Foundation for Peripheral Neuropathy online. It is a progressive disease. If it is caused by diabetes and if the diabetes is well controlled, the neuropathy will be controlled. If it is caused by long-standing diabetes, that has been out of control for years, the damage can be permanent.
“Chronic alcoholism can also be the cause. Alcohol use on a daily basis can cause it. Issues from gastric bypass surgery or other abdominal surgery can be a cause.”
Also, being overweight, having high blood pressure or leg swelling can cause neuropathy. There is often more than one cause. The aging process itself can be a cause. Too many vitamin supplements aren’t good; too much vitamin B-6 can cause nerve damage. Some medications can cause neuropathy.
4. What helps relieve the symptoms?
Today, many treatment options exist, such as over-the counter pain relievers or those prescribed by your physician. Also, alternative or complementary treatments can alleviate symptoms and aid in pain relief, so it’s important to find the treatment option that will work best for you.
It is common for people with peripheral neuropathy to experience different degrees of pain. It’s important to identify the type of pain medication that will work best for managing your painful symptoms, that also works with your body chemistry and complements other treatments.
5. When should I consult with a healthcare professional?
If you experience persistent numbness, tingling, weakness or pain in your feet, hands or arms, especially if you have risk factors like diabetes, it’s important to see a healthcare provider for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
“If you are having symptoms on a daily basis or if your symptoms are worsening or are worse at night or if you’re having issues with your balance, talk with your primary care physician or a neurologist,” Goldiner said. “A neurologist or a physician who specializes in the treatment of disorders of the central and peripheral nervous systems, is the best physician to treat neuropathy.
“A neurologist will do a workup, check for vitamin levels, do a physical exam and lab work, to decide on an individual treatment plan, depending on the cause of your neuropathy. Everybody is different. I tailor my treatment plan for each patient individually. And I monitor the patient regularly to make sure the medication I’ve prescribed is working.” Goldiner added.
Early recognition of symptoms like numbness, tingling, or pain in the feet is crucial, as they can signal the development of this progressive condition that can worsen without treatment.