Peripheral neuropathy: here’s why you might experience tingling and numbness in your limbs
Peripheral neuropathy damages peripheral nerves, causing numbness, tingling, and weakness, often starting in the feet and hands. Causes include vitamin deficiencies, certain medications, alcohol abuse, infections, and chronic diseases like diabetes. Diagnosis involves clinical examination and history. Treatment focuses on correcting causes, reducing toxins, and supportive therapies like physiotherapy.
Peripheral nerves and their role in sensory and motor function Nerves located outside the brain or the spinal cord are called the peripheral nerves. They help in transferring information from the central nervous system to other parts of the body. These nerves are responsible for the sensory and motor function of various parts of the body.(Image : canva)
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Polyneuropathy and the characteristic glove and stocking pattern Polyneuropathy or peripheral neuropathy refers to the condition that affects or damages the peripheral nerves. It occurs first in the long nerves, affecting the distal portions of the lower limbs, before affecting the upper limbs. The signs and symptoms may occur in an ascending manner, often called the glove and stocking pattern.(Image : canva)
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Vitamin deficiencies and their role in disrupting nerve function There can be multiple underlying causes that may lead to peripheral neuropathies, which can include vitamin deficiencies as well. A reduced intake or absorption of vitamin B12, and vitamin E, along with thiamine and pyridoxine can cause a disruption in the normal functioning of the nerves.(Image : canva)
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Neuropathy caused by medications used for chronic diseases If you have been taking medications for other problems like dapsone (for leprosy), ethambutol, isoniazid (anti-tubercular drugs) or other antibiotics, you may be more susceptible to developing neuropathy. Chemotherapeutic agents used for cancer therapy may also contribute to this condition.(Image : canva)
Alcohol-induced nerve damage and associated systemic effects Recreational use of toxins like alcohol can deleteriously affect your body. Not only the nerves suffer because of the alcohol consumption, but other organs like the liver and pancreas can get affected as well. Such nerve damage can lead to numbness and pain in the respective limbs.(Image : canva)
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Infectious, inflammatory and systemic conditions linked to neuropathy Infectious and inflammatory conditions like HIV-AIDS, leprosy, and vasculitis (inflammation of the blood vessels) can cause poly-neuropathies. Co-morbidities like diabetes mellitus and renal failure contribute to this condition as well, and must be managed with adequate drugs and interventions.(Image : canva)
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Common sensory and motor symptoms seen in neuropathic patients A patient affected with peripheral neuropathy may experience tingling and numbness in the limbs. There can also be concurrent loss of sensations, which can be checked by various methods. Motor disturbances due to nerve damage can lead to reduced functioning of the limbs.(Image : canva)
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Functional limitations and physical examination in neuropathy The power of the affected muscles may be reduced, and the person may not be able to carry out their daily activities. Due to this, the gait can change as well. A thorough examination of the skin, hair and nails is vital for diagnosing the extent of this condition.(Image : canva)
Clinical history and nutritional clues to identify neuropathy causes The distribution of the deficits in sensation and motor skills, the duration of the symptoms and the disease pathology must be looked into. A diet history may help elicit whether the neuropathy has been caused due to a dietary deficiency. For example, vegetarian are more likely to have vitamin B12 deficiency, leading to neuropathy.(Image : canva)
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Treatment of neuropathy depends on the cause and supportive care The treatment depends mostly on the underlying pathology and its correction. Nutrient deficiencies must be corrected by adding the required vitamins like B12 and vitamin E. Alcohol consumption must be curbed, and physiotherapy may be recommended by your health care professional to deal with the weakness that accompanies peripheral neuropathy.(Image : canva)
Rajeshwaari Kalla is a freelance health and wellness writer
