Neuropathy. A Primer on Condition Types, Causes & Symptoms

Living with chronic pain can be overwhelming, particularly when the pain stems from neuropathy.

What is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is defined as a condition or disease where the body’s nerves are affected by a disease or malfunction of some sort. Neuropathy is typically classified based on the particular nerves that are most or directly affected.¹

Types of Neuropathies

Neuropathy is a broad term. There are many types of neuropathies that differ based on what nerves or sets of are affected.² Each has its own set of symptoms and prognosis. Some of the more common neuropathies include:

• Peripheral neuropathy — a problem with the nerves where the effects are seen on the nerves that are outside the brain and spinal cord.
• Motor neuropathy — refers to damage to the nerves that control muscles and movement in the body, such as moving your hands or speaking.
• Sensory neuropathy — is a result of damage to sensory nerves that control what you feel, such as pain, temperature or a light touch.
• Autonomic neuropathy — impacts the nerves that control involuntary bodily functions like heart rate and digestion. Damage or malfunction of these nerves can be serious and life-threatening.
• Proximal neuropathy — is a condition that causes pain in the hips, thighs, or buttocks.
• Focal neuropathy — is focused on one nerve or group of nerves of an affected area of the body.
• Combination neuropathies — a mix of 2 or 3 of these other types of neuropathies, such as a sensory-motor neuropathy.

Symptoms of Neuropathy

When nerves are damaged or become dysfunctional, it can result in a range of symptoms. With neuropathy — it often starts with a changed sensation in the hands or feet. There may be tingling, or unexplained pain.

It’s important to not ignore any pain. Take the time to schedule an appointment with a doctor if you are experiencing any of the below.

• Muscle weakness, pain, or twitching
• Loss of muscle strength
• Tingling sensation (pins and needles feeling)
• Numbness in limbs
• Intense nerve pain
• Poor balance or coordination
• Affected reflexes
• Hypersensitivity or the inability to feel pain
• Change in color or texture of skin, hair, or nails.

Common Causes of Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be caused by a wide range of factors. Here are some of the more common causes:

• Diabetes — is one of the leading causes, resulting in diabetic neuropathy.
• Infections — stemming from conditions like shingles, hepatitis C, and Lyme disease can lead to nerve damage.
• Chemotherapy — as treatment for certain cancers can cause chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy.
• Autoimmune disorders — or conditions like multiple sclerosis, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis can attack the peripheral nerves.
• Trauma — where the nerves suffer a sudden or direct impact from accident-related injury.
• Toxins — an exposure from heavy metals such as mercury, lead, arsenic or thallium.

Who is More Likely to Suffer from Neuropathy

Neuropathy affects around 8-percent of people after they turn 55. In addition to age, other factors that can increase the risk:

• Diabetics — Those with poor glucose control are especially prone to develop neuropathy.
• Genetics — Family history can play a role.
• Lifestyle — Poor nutrition, excessive drinking of alcohol, and a lack of physical exercise can increase risk.
• Chronic conditions — Conditions like kidney disease and HIV/AIDS can cause nerve damage.

How Do I Know if I Have Neuropathy?

Because the symptoms and body parts are so varied, neuropathy can be difficult to diagnose. The first step is to speak with a medical professional³ to discuss your concerns. They may want to refer you to a neurologist, a doctor who specializes in diseases of the nervous system.

A neurologist will want to collect information and history on what symptoms you’ve experienced. They’ll also want to schedule a physical exam to look at signs of muscle weakness, impaired reflexes, and any sources of tingling or numbness sensation. Other tests that may be required, are:

• Blood and urine tests
• Spinal fluid tests
• Muscle strength tests
• Tests of the ability to detect vibrations

Other tests may be performed to determine the extent of nerve damage, such as a CT scan, MRI scan, electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies, and biopsies.

Treatment Options — Finding the Right One for You

While there is no absolute “cure” for neuropathy, there are treatments options⁴ to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

• Medication — such as pain relievers, anti-seizure drugs, and antidepressants can lessen symptoms. Talk to your doctor to understand what’s right for you.
• Physical therapy (PT) — over time can help rebuild muscles and improve coordination.
• Lifestyle changes — like managing to a more balanced and healthy diet have shown beneficial for many. Incorporating regular exercise can help as well.
• Alternative therapies — such as acupuncture, biofeedback, and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) may help relieve symptoms and pain.

If you or someone you know is experiencing possible symptoms of neuropathy, don’t wait.

Schedule an appointment for a consultation with a Cooper and Inspira Neurology specialist dedicated to treating neuropathy and chronic pain.

References

1. NIH, National Library of Medicine — Neuropathy. C. Hammi, B.Yeung, 10/15/2022. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK542220/[↩]
2. eMedicinehealth — Neuropathy. M.Stoppler, MD, W.Shiel MD, https://www.emedicinehealth.com/slideshow_nerve_pain/article_em.htm[↩]
3. Foundation for Peripheral Neuropathy. What is Peripheral Neuropathy, Neurological Evaluations. https://www.foundationforpn.org/understanding-peripheral-neuropathy/evaluation-and-tests/[↩]
4. Healthline. What you should know about Neuropathic pain – treatment. K. Holland, H. Moawad, MD, May 4, 2023[↩]