What is peripheral neuropathy?
Diabetic neuropathy is a specific type of peripheral neuropathy that arises from prolonged high blood sugar levels, a common complication of diabetes.
Diabetic neuropathy is a condition characterized by damage to the nerves, typically affecting the extremities such as the hands and feet.
It’s related to high blood sugar (glucose) levels associated with diabetes, which can injure nerves throughout your body.
When your neuropathic condition affects nerves outside of your brain and spinal cord, it’s known as peripheral neuropathy. This is the most common type of diabetic neuropathy.
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Peripheral neuropathy can manifest with a variety of symptoms, impacting different nerves throughout the body.
Common signs include tingling or burning sensations, often starting in the feet and spreading to the hands.
Peripheral neuropathy can have various causes, and it is often associated with damage or dysfunction of the peripheral nerves.
Some common causes include:
- Diabetes: Prolonged high blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can lead to nerve damage, resulting in diabetic neuropathy.
- Trauma or Injury: Physical injuries, such as fractures, dislocations, or compression of nerves due to prolonged pressure, can cause peripheral neuropathy.
- Infections: Certain infections, including viral or bacterial infections, may lead to nerve damage. Examples include Lyme disease, HIV, and shingles.
- Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues can contribute to neuropathy. Examples include rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
- Toxins and Chemicals: Exposure to certain toxins, chemicals, or medications can damage nerves. Chemotherapy drugs, heavy metals, and certain industrial chemicals are examples.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins (B12, B6), vitamin E, and niacin, can lead to neuropathy.
- Alcohol Abuse: Chronic alcohol abuse can cause nutritional deficiencies and directly damage nerves, leading to alcoholic neuropathy.
- Genetic Factors: Some individuals may be genetically predisposed to neuropathy, and certain genetic disorders can result in nerve damage.
- Kidney Disorders: Conditions affecting the kidneys, such as chronic kidney disease, can lead to the accumulation of toxins in the body, contributing to neuropathy.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Disorders affecting hormones, such as hypothyroidism, can contribute to neuropathy.
Diagnosing peripheral neuropathy involves a comprehensive approach that includes medical history, physical examination, and various diagnostic tests.
The diagnostic process for peripheral neuropathy may be:
- Medical History:
The healthcare provider will gather information about the patient’s overall health, medical history, and any existing conditions, including diabetes.
- Physical Examination:
A thorough neurological examination is conducted to assess muscle strength, reflexes, coordination, and sensory perception.
- Blood Tests:
Blood tests can help identify underlying causes of neuropathy, such as diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, or autoimmune disorders.
Monitoring blood glucose levels is essential, especially in cases of diabetic neuropathy.
- Nerve Function Tests:
Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies measure electrical activity in muscles and the speed of nerve signal transmission. These tests can help identify nerve damage and its severity.
A collaborative effort between the patient and expert doctor for peripheral neuropathy is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and the development of an effective treatment plan.
It’s crucial for individuals with peripheral neuropathy to work closely with doctor specializing in peripheral neuropathy to develop a personalized treatment plan.
Regular monitoring and adjustments to the treatment approach may be necessary based on the individual’s response to interventions.