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Peripheral neuropathy is a condition resulting from damage to the peripheral nervous system, the complex network of central nerves that transmit information from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the
body. The damage caused to the peripheral nervous system as a result of
neuropathy interrupts the connection between the brain and the nerves of the rest of the body.
Every peripheral nerve provides a specialized function in every
specific portion of the body, which can cause a wide variety of symptoms when
the nerves are damaged.
People afflicted by neuropathy on the peripheral nerves may suffer from temporary numbness, tingling or prickling sensations (paresthesia), and
sensitivity to touch or muscle weakness. Occasionally, severe symptoms of the
condition may occur, such as burning pain that aggravates at night, muscle atrophy, paralysis, and organ or gland dysfunction. Others affected by this
type of neuropathy may have complications while digesting food, maintaining safe levels
of blood pressure, sweating, or experiencing normal sexual function. In severe cases, breathing may become difficult.
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that may be either
acquired or inherited.
Acquired causes for the condition include trauma or physical injury directly to a nerve, pressure on the nerve from a tumor or a swollen blood vessel, nutritional deficiencies, autoimmune
responses, and alcoholism or toxins. Other underlying conditions like multiple
sclerosis and diabetes can also cause this type of neuropathy, as a matter or fact, diabetes
is the leading cause of peripheral neuropathy in the U.S. In most cases though,
causes for the development of this condition remain unknown.
Peripheral neuropathy is an impairing condition
but it is reversible. The symptoms for the condition can be relieved by foremost treating any possible underlying condition that could have caused the
neuropathy. Lifestyle changes and healthy habits can promote nerve regeneration. Treatments for the condition include
exercise routines recommended by a physical therapist or specialist, and diet
and nutritional strategies to treat deficiencies and improve wellness.
By Dr. Alex Jimenez
