You may have questions about what neuropathy is, as it is often mentioned in connection with various conditions. In general terms, neuropathy refers to almost any disorder that affects the peripheral nervous system, including the brain, nerves, and spinal cord.
In the body, nerves are responsible for communication between the central nervous system and the rest of the body, enabling functions, sensations, and even autonomic processes.
If these nerves are damaged, the body will begin to send or receive nerve signals differently, resulting in a variety of symptoms.
In neuropathy, one or more nerves can be affected, and there are multiple causes, such as diseases, injuries, or even genetic factors, that can lead to this condition.
Depending on the nerve or nerves involved, neuropathy is classified into different types, and the underlying cause of the damage is also relevant.
Peripheral neuropathy is the most common type and affects the nerves of the extremities; autonomic neuropathy affects the nerves that control the body’s automatic functions; focal neuropathy affects one or several nerves in a specific area; and proximal neuropathy is less common and affects the nerves of the hip, buttocks, and thighs.
When a person has a condition that affects multiple peripheral nerves simultaneously, it is known as polyneuropathy.
Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is a disorder in which the peripheral nerves are affected; these nerves are responsible for transmitting signals between the central nervous system and the rest of the body.
This is the most prevalent type of neuropathy and can appear in different ways, depending on the underlying cause.
Among the most common causes is diabetes, infections such as shingles, certain autoimmune diseases, nutritional deficiencies, particularly deficiencies in B vitamins, exposure to toxic substances ranging from alcohol to heavy metals or certain medications, traumatic injuries such as fractures, wounds, or prolonged pressure on a nerve. Genetic factors such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease may also be responsible for its development.
In addition, there are stress-related neuropathy symptoms, sometimes referred to as stress-induced neuropathy or psychosomatic neuropathy. This is not neuropathy in the traditional sense, as there is no physical nerve damage; however, neuropathic symptoms may be triggered by psychological or emotional stress.
Diabetic Neuropathy
To understand what diabetic neuropathy is, it is important to know that it is a common complication in people living with poorly controlled diabetes and one of the most prevalent forms of neuropathy. It is estimated that around 50% of people with diabetes will develop some type of neuropathy during their lifetime.
This condition develops from prolonged high blood glucose levels, leading to damage to blood vessels and nerves.
To prevent it, strict blood glucose control is essential, along with a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, and avoiding risk factors such as smoking.
Once diabetic neuropathy has developed, which can affect any nerve or nerves in the body, treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing further complications.
Understanding which medication is appropriate for diabetic neuropathy depends on the type of treatment being followed, since although diabetes is the underlying cause, the type of problems and the nerves affected may vary.
Neuropathy Symptoms
Depending on the type of nerves affected, as well as the underlying cause, neuropathy symptoms may vary; however, some are more common than others.
Numbness or tingling is very common and may begin mildly and progress to loss of sensation; tingling often first appears in the fingers and toes.
Pain may be experienced as a burning or stabbing sensation; there may also be allodynia, in which pain is triggered by stimuli that would not normally cause it, such as the touch of clothing or even the wind. In some cases, hyperalgesia may occur, which is an exaggerated sensitivity to pain.
Muscle weakness or atrophy may also occur, with severity depending on the progression of the neuropathy. In addition, coordination problems, balance issues, and loss of reflexes may develop.
Some individuals may experience autonomic issues such as digestive problems, bladder dysfunction, or reduced sweating.
Changes in the skin, hair, and nails may also be noticed.
These are just some of the possible consequences that may occur in the development of neuropathy, although there are many other variations. In general terms, however, diabetic neuropathy symptoms and peripheral neuropathy symptoms can be very similar.
Neuropathic Pain
The term neuropathic pain refers to a type of chronic pain that occurs when nerves are damaged or dysfunctional. Typically, a person experiences nociceptive pain, which results from inflammation or injury; however, neuropathic pain arises from an alteration in the nervous system, where incorrect pain signals are sent to the brain.
In neuropathic pain, treatment can be challenging due to its chronic nature and the complexity of the nervous system involved.
For all these reasons, neuropathy is considered a complex condition to manage, and it can have a significant impact on the quality of life of those living with it.
At ABC Medical Center’s Neurology Center, we can provide you with specialized care. Contact us!
Fuentes: MedlinePlus, Cancer.org, Cigna
