Neuropathy can be a life changing diagnosis so it is beneficial for individuals to know as much about it to avoid getting it or to know what to expect after a diagnosis. The term neuropathy actually refers to a collection of disorders that are caused by a damaged peripheral nervous system. The peripheral nervous system is the part of the nervous system that lies outside of the brain and the spinal cord. Neuropathy is also called peripheral neuropathy. It is known that neuropathy is usually the result of damaged nerve axons, although there are many reasons that these nerve axons may become damaged.
When diagnosed with neuropathy most patients have been experience pain or sensations that brought them into the doctor. The condition can cause pain as well as numbness in the hands, the feet, as well as other parts of the body. Neuropathy can affect many different nerves including those that control muscle movement, those that control sensations, and even some that control all of the internal organs. Many patients describe neuropathy pain as a burning or tingling feeling. Others describe the pain as an electric type feeling, freezing, numbness, or a heaviness of the limbs. Each patient is different and the sensations may be different from time to time in the same person. In many cases the pain will come and go or will improve over time. This is especially true when the cause of the neuropathy can be cured.
More than 20 million people in the United States suffer from one form or another of neuropathy. Unfortunately, the cause for about 30% of these cases is unknown, which is called idiopathic neuropathy. Some of the other causes include trauma to the nerves from repetitive motion, a lack of vitamins and minerals, and alcoholism. Additionally, those with autoimmune diseases and tumors will often experience neuropathy, as will those who have infections or diseases such as HIV, Lyme disease, kidney disease, and more. Those who have been exposed to toxins such as heavy metals may also experience neuropathy.
There are a lot of people who may experience neuropathy sometime in their life. The risk factors for developing neuropathy usually include conditions and behaviors to make it more likely. About 50% of those with diabetes will experience neuropathy because of high blood sugar levels that damage the nerves. Those with autoimmune diseases and arthritis are likely to experience the condition, as are those who have received organ transplants. Patients with AIDS also have a high chance of developing neuropathy. Anyone who does not get all of the vitamins and minerals they need due to poor diet or problems with the kidneys and liver are also more likely to experience neuropathy some time in their life.
For more information about what is neuropathy please visit http://www.WhatIsNeuropathy.org. There you will find more resources regarding this disorder and how you can live an easier life.
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