Peripheral Neuropathy

📖What is Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition resulting from damage to the peripheral nerves, the extensive network of nerves that carries signals between the brain and spinal cord and the rest of the body, most commonly affecting the hands and feet. This nerve damage disrupts the normal transmission of sensory, motor, or autonomic signals, leading to symptoms that can range from mild tingling to significant pain, weakness, or loss of sensation depending on which types of nerve fibres are affected. Diabetes is by far the most common cause worldwide and in India, with prolonged high blood sugar levels gradually damaging small nerve fibres over years, though numerous other causes exist including nutritional deficiencies, infections, and certain medications. The pattern and distribution of symptoms often provide important clues to the underlying cause, and identifying and treating that cause, when possible, is central to management. While nerve damage from long-standing peripheral neuropathy is often not fully reversible, treatment can meaningfully reduce symptoms and, when the underlying cause is addressed early, can help slow or halt further nerve damage.

More About Peripheral Neuropathy