Peripheral Neuropathy: Understanding the Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Coolbrandt Dowling^*
*Correspondence: Coolbrandt Dowling, Departments of Paediatrics and Molecular Genetics, The University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada, Email:

Keywords

Peripheral neuropathy • Treatment • Physical trauma

Introduction

Peripheral neuropathy can have many causes. Some of the common causes include: Diabetes is one of the leading causes of peripheral neuropathy. High blood sugar levels can damage the nerves, leading to neuropathy. It often affects the feet and legs first and then progresses to the hands and arms. Physical trauma, such as fractures, dislocations, or nerve compression due to repetitive motion or prolonged pressure, can damage the nerves and result in peripheral neuropathy. Certain viral or bacterial infections, such as Lyme disease, shingles, and HIV, can cause peripheral neuropathy. Exposure to toxins, such as chemicals, heavy metals, and certain medications, can damage the nerves and result in peripheral neuropathy. Deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12, vitamin B6, and vitamin E, can lead to peripheral neuropathy [1].

Literature Review

Hereditary or genetic factors: Some types of peripheral neuropathy are inherited or caused by genetic mutations.

Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and Guillain-Barre syndrome, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the nerves, can result in peripheral neuropathy.

Peripheral neuropathy can cause a wide range of symptoms, which may vary depending on the type of nerves affected. Common symptoms include:

Tingling and numbness: A sensation of tingling, pins and needles, or numbness in the affected areas, usually in the feet, legs, hands, or arms.

Weakness and muscle atrophy: Weakness and loss of muscle mass in the affected areas, leading to difficulty in gripping objects, lifting items, or performing fine motor tasks [2].

Pain: Sharp, stabbing, or burning pain in the affected areas, this may worsen at night or with movement.

Loss of coordination and balance: Difficulty in maintaining balance and coordination due to nerve damage in the feet and legs, leading to an increased risk of falls.

Sensory changes: Changes in sensation, such as decreased ability to feel temperature changes, touch, or pain.

Changes in skin, hair, and nails: Changes in the color, texture, and temperature of the skin, as well as hair and nail abnormalities, may occur in the affected areas.

Digestive and urinary problems: Damage to the nerves that control the digestive tract and urinary system can cause symptoms like constipation, diarrhea, difficulty swallowing, and bladder dysfunction.

Discussion

The treatment of peripheral neuropathy depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Some common treatment options include:

Medications: Pain medications, such as over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications like antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and opioids, may be prescribed to manage pain associated with peripheral neuropathy [3].

Physical therapy: Physical therapy may help improve muscle strength, balance, and coordination, and alleviate pain through exercises, stretching, and other techniques.

Lifestyle changes: Managing underlying conditions like diabetes, maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding alcohol and toxins may help manage peripheral neuropathy

Nutritional supplements: If the peripheral neuropathy is caused by nutritional deficiencies, supplements of vitamins or minerals, such as vitamin B12, vitamin B6, and vitamin E, may be recommended.

Nerve-stimulating techniques: Certain nerve-stimulating techniques, such as Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) or plasma exchange, may be used to relieve pain and improve nerve function.

Topical treatments: Topical creams or patches containing medications like lidocaine or capsaicin may be applied to the affected areas to provide relief from pain and discomfort.

Alternative therapies: Some alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, and herbal supplements, may be used as complementary treatments for peripheral neuropathy, although scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness is limited.

Lifestyle modifications: Making lifestyle modifications, such as managing blood sugar levels in diabetes, avoiding exposure to toxins, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, may help prevent further nerve damage and manage symptoms of peripheral neuropathy.Assistive devices: Depending on the severity of the condition, assistive devices like braces, splints, or orthotic shoes may be recommended to improve mobility and reduce the risk of falls.

Counseling and support: Living with peripheral neuropathy can be challenging, and individuals may experience emotional and psychological distress. Counseling, support groups, and other mental health interventions may be helpful in managing the emotional impact of peripheral neuropathy.

It's important to note that treatment options for peripheral neuropathy may vary depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. It's essential to work closely with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for individual needs.

Moreover, taking steps to prevent peripheral neuropathy is equally important. This can include managing underlying medical conditions like diabetes or autoimmune diseases, avoiding exposure to toxins and chemicals, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise, and taking appropriate precautions to prevent injuries and trauma to the nerves.

Living with peripheral neuropathy can also have a significant impact on the emotional and mental well-being of individuals. Coping with chronic pain, mobility limitations, and other symptoms can lead to stress, anxiety, depression, and decreased quality of life. Therefore, seeking emotional support through counseling, therapy, or support groups can be beneficial in managing the psychological aspects of peripheral neuropathy [4].

In addition to medical treatment and lifestyle changes, self-care can also play a crucial role in managing peripheral neuropathy. This can include regular foot care, such as checking for cuts, blisters, or other injuries, keeping the feet clean and moisturized, and wearing comfortable shoes that provide proper support and cushioning. Maintaining good overall health through a balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management can also help improve nerve health and overall well-being. It's important to be proactive and vigilant about managing peripheral neuropathy to prevent complications and ensure the best possible outcomes. Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers, adherence to prescribed medications and treatments, and communication about any changes in symptoms or concerns are vital in managing the condition effectively [5,6].

Conclusion

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that affects the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord, leading to a wide range of symptoms. It can be caused by various factors, including diabetes, trauma, infections, toxins, nutritional deficiencies, hereditary or genetic factors, and autoimmune diseases. Treatment options may include medications, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, nerve-stimulating techniques, topical treatments, alternative therapies, lifestyle modifications, assistive devices, counseling, and support. If you suspect you may have peripheral neuropathy, it's crucial to seek medical advice for proper evaluation, diagnosis, and management of the condition. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help manage symptoms, prevent further nerve damage, and improve the quality of life for individuals with peripheral neuropathy.

Acknowledgement

None.

Conflict of Interest

None.

References

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