Peripheral Neuropathy Specialist

What causes peripheral neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy is not a single condition; more than 100 types have been identified. The condition is marked by some form of damage or malfunction of the peripheral nervous system, which is made up of the nerves that send signals to and from the spinal cord and brain.

Diabetes is the leading cause of peripheral neuropathy and an estimated 60% of people with diabetes also have peripheral neuropathy — usually beginning in the nerves of the feet and progressing up the legs and the rest of the body.

Other causes of peripheral neuropathy include:

• Vitamin deficiencies
• Charcot-Marie-Tooth and other inherited disorders
• Infections
• Trauma
• Alcoholism
• Autoimmune diseases
• Other diseases
• Exposure to toxic substances

What are the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy?

Because the peripheral nervous system is vast, and the nerves it comprises have specific and varying functions, there are many possible symptoms of peripheral neuropathy.

Nerves are divided into three categories:

• Sensory nerves: signal sensation, such as pain or vibration, on your skin
• Motor nerves: control muscle movement
• Autonomic nerves: control body processes like blood pressure, digestion, and heart rate

The type of neuropathy you have and the symptoms you experience depend on which nerves are affected. Symptoms include:

• Numbness or tingling in your hands or feet
• Extreme sensitivity to touch
• Lack of coordination
• Weakness of your muscles or even paralysis
• Intolerance of heat
• Digestive problems
• Changes in blood pressure

What treatments are available for peripheral neuropathy?

Treating any underlying condition that is contributing to peripheral neuropathy is important. For example, people with uncontrolled diabetes often have more symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, so getting your diabetes under control is a critical step toward relief from the neuropathy pain.

Pain due to nerve damage is often difficult to control, but Dr. Azeem is dedicated to helping his patients find relief. Elements of a pain management program for peripheral neuropathy include:

• Medications, such as antidepressants, antiarrhythmic drugs, anticonvulsant medications, and narcotics
• Topical medications like lidocaine or capsaicin
• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) units that deliver small electrical currents through electrodes placed on the painful area
• Braces or orthopedic devices
• Surgical interventions

If you have questions about managing the pain of peripheral neuropathy, call or book a consultation online with Dr. Azeem.