Neuropathy

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Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms depend on the type of nerve(s) affected (e.g., motor, sensory, autonomic) and where the nerve is located in the body. One or more types of nerve may be damaged.

Muscle weakness, cramps, and spasms are associated with motor nerve damage. In some cases, there may be loss of balance and coordination.

Sensory nerve damage can produce tingling, numbness, and pain. Pain associated with sensory nerve damage is variously described as:

• Sensation of wearing an invisible "glove" or "sock"
• Burning, freezing, or electric-like
• Extreme sensitivity to touch

If the autonomic nerves are damaged, involuntary functions may be affected. Symptoms that can result from this type of damage include abnormal blood pressure and heart rate, reduced ability to perspire, constipation, bladder dysfunction (e.g., incontinence), and sexual dysfunction.

Some neuropathies develop suddenly; others progress slowly, even over a number of years. Severity varies among individuals and may vary in the same individual throughout the day. Symptoms generally are more severe at night.

Complications

Untreated peripheral neuropathy may result in permanent loss of nerve function, tissue damage, and muscle atrophy. It is important to receive proper treatment and management of this condition to reduce the risk for irreversible damage and other serious complications.

Chronic pain can cause sleeplessness and a decline in quality of life. Pain sufferers often experience a disruption in their ability to perform daily tasks and may suffer from depression. Symptoms of depression include:

• apathy,
• feelings of isolation and frustration, and
• memory loss.

Neuropathy, Signs and Symptoms, Complications reprinted with permission from neurologychannel.com
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