Peripheral Neuropathy – Things You Should Know

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition in which the nervous system that connects the nerves from your brain and spinal cord, or central nervous system, to the rest of your body, is damaged or diseased.

Peripheral neuropathy can affect any of the three types of nerves: sensory, motor or autonomic.

Living with peripheral neuropathy is like riding a roller-coaster — especially for those recently diagnosed. Managing this painful condition is frustrating at best, and can feel overwhelming at times. Peripheral nerves are the longest nerves in the body, extending all the way from the hands to the feet. When damaged, common symptoms are pain, numbness or tingling in the hands and feet.

Let’s learn some important things about peripheral neuropathy.

High blood sugar and diabetes is the top cause of peripheral neuropathy

About 60% to 70% of all people with diabetes will eventually develop peripheral neuropathy, although not all suffer pain. Studies have shown that people with diabetes can reduce the risk of nerve damage by keeping the blood sugar under control.

There are other causes too

Peripheral neuropathy can result from traumatic injuries, infections, metabolic problems, inherited causes and exposure to toxins.

Some drugs/medication can also cause peripheral neuropathy

Drug-induced peripheral neuropathy is a common and painful condition caused by many different and frequently prescribed medications. Some commonly used therapeutic medications can cause adverse effects and that could include neuropathy.

It includes more than pain and tingling

Sensory nerve damage causes frequent pain, tingling and numbness. Motor nerve damage may cause difficulty walking or picking up items, and moving the arms. Autonomic nerve damage affects more of your involuntary functions, like breathing, sweating, blood pressure and more.

Diet can also make your symptoms worse

Your diet can either help or hurt your nerves. To improve symptoms, avoid foods with excess sugar, artificial sweeteners and refined grains. These foods can cause strain on your nerves and irritate nerve pain.

If you are living with peripheral neuropathy for many years, understanding the condition can help you make smarter decisions. Since diabetes is the main cause of peripheral neuropathy, it is also one of the most preventable diseases linked with it.

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