The peripheral nervous system (SNP) is the nerve network located outside the central nervous system (formed by the brain and spinal cord) whose function is to transmit signals about the physical sensations of the peripheral organs to the brain, when these nerves malfunction, because they are damaged or destroyed, is peripheral neuropathy.
The SNP includes different types of nerves with their own specific functions, some of which are:
- Peripheral neuropathy can affect a group of nerves or all three together.
- When peripheral neuropathy occurs.
- Normal nerve function is interrupted.
- So they can send signs of pain when nothing causes it.
- Or they may not send a pain signal even if something is causing it.
This nerve deficiency may be due to pain, systemic disease, infection, or an inherited disorder. Let’s go further.
The symptoms of peripheral neuropathy vary depending on the type of neuropathy.
Sensory neuropathy may have the following symptoms
Sensory neuropathy can also cause foot and leg ulcers, as well as infections and gangrene.
Motor neuropathy affects your muscles and has the following symptoms:
If autonomic nerves are affected, there may be vegetative problems related to sweating, heat tolerance, bowel or bladder function, and changes in blood pressure, which can cause dizziness.
Keep in mind that in both cases these symptoms may also indicate other conditions, so it is important to inform your doctor of any symptoms that are perceived if an appointment is made.
Many types of neuropathy are idiopathic (of unknown cause), but several conditions can trigger them. Diabetes is the most common cause of chronic peripheral neuropathy because high blood sugar levels damage nerves.
Other potentially causal conditions and injuries include
Other causes of peripheral neuropathy can be:
In addition, small blood vessel disorders can reduce blood supply to nerves, causing damage to nerve tissue. Neuromas (benign tumors that affect nerve tissue) can also cause neuropathic pain.
Treatment of peripheral neuropathy depends on symptoms and the underlying cause; only some of these cases can be dealt with. For example, in the case of diabetes, maintaining good blood glucose control, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol consumption can help improve symptoms of neuropathy.
Nerve pain can be treated with medications called neuropathic pain agents. Standard painkillers are often ineffective.
Other symptoms associated with peripheral neuropathy may require individual treatment; for example, the treatment of muscle weakness may include physical therapy and the use of mobility aids.
In addition, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) can help many people. In this noninvasive, drug-free therapy, electrodes are placed on the skin to send small amounts of electricity. The goal of this treatment is to prevent nerves. transmitting pain signals to the brain by disrupting nerve flow through these discharges.
On the other hand, it is worth mentioning that many people find relief from peripheral neuropathy through other alternative approaches, such as chiropractic, acupuncture and massage. In addition, meditation and yoga can also be very helpful in relieving symptoms. Moderate and regular exercise can also help reduce these discomforts.