Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy describes damage to the peripheral nervous system, which transmits information from the brain and spinal cord to every other part of the body.

More than 100 types of peripheral neuropathy have been identified, each with its own characteristic set of symptoms, pattern of development, and prognosis. The types of problems perceived by a patient with peripheral neuropathy will depend on the type of nerves -- motor, sensory, or autonomic -- that are damaged.  Some people may experience numbness, tingling, and pricking sensations, sensitivity to touch, or muscle weakness. Others may suffer more extreme symptoms, including burning pain (especially at night), muscle wasting, paralysis, or organ or gland dysfunction. Peripheral neuropathy may be either inherited or acquired.

There are numerous causes for peripheral neuropathy including:(trauma) to a nerve,  exposure to toxins, autoimmune responses, nutritional deficiencies (such as Vitamin B12 deficiency), alcoholism,  and metabolic disorders (such as diabetes). Acquired peripheral neuropathies are caused by systemic disease, trauma from external agents, or infections or autoimmune disorders affecting nerve tissue.  If the specific cause for the neuropathy can be identified then there may be treatment to reverse the symptoms. Inherited forms of peripheral neuropathy are caused by inborn mistakes in the genetic code or by new genetic mutations and at present have no known therapies.

Symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral Neuropathy Cause
Peripheral Neuropathy Cure
Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment
Peripheral Neuropathy Research