Table of Contents
What structures do peripheral neuropathies affect?
Peripheral neuropathies can affect peripheral sensory, motor, and autonomic nerves and on occasion the cranial nerves.
Who is affected by peripheral neuropathy?
It is estimated that about 25% to 30% of Americans will be affected by neuropathy. The condition affects people of all ages; however, older people are at increased risk.
Can you regain feeling after neuropathy?
Even though it may take months, recovery can occur. However, in some situations, symptoms of neuropathy may lessen but not completely go away. For example, nerve injury caused by radiation often does not recover well.
What are three categories of peripheral neuropathy?
To help doctors classify them, they are often broken down into the following categories:
- Motor neuropathy. This is damage to the nerves that control muscles and movement in the body, such as moving your hands and arms or talking.
- Sensory neuropathy.
- Autonomic nerve neuropathy.
- Combination neuropathies.
How long does it take for neuropathy to go away?
For people whose symptoms continue after treatment is complete, these often improve or resolve within 6-12 months. Some people do experience these symptoms for a longer period of time and for some, they become permanent.
What is peripheral neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy is nerve pain that affects the limbs. Peripheral neuropathy is a condition in which the nerves in the peripheral nervous system become damaged. Peripheral neuropathy symptoms and signs depend upon the cause.
Can peripheral neuropathy cause tingling in feet?
As a result, people with peripheral neuropathy develop pain, burning, or tingling in the distribution of the affected nerves. Most commonly, this is in the feet and/or hands. This can cause tingling, numbness, and/or burning in the toes or fingers.
Can statins cause peripheral neuropathy?
Statin medications have been linked to peripheral neuropathy, although neuropathy caused by statins only rarely causes symptoms. While diabetes and postherpetic neuralgia are the most common causes of peripheral neuropathy, oftentimes no cause is found. In these situations, it is referred to as idiopathic peripheral neuropathy.
When should I seek medical attention for peripheral neuropathy?
Most people with peripheral neuropathy have polyneuropathy. Seek medical care right away if you notice unusual tingling, weakness or pain in your hands or feet. Early diagnosis and treatment offer the best chance for controlling your symptoms and preventing further damage to your peripheral nerves.