What is Peripheral Neuropathy and Do I Have It

  

Simply put, peripheral neuropathy is a condition where damage occurs to nerves located somewhere other than the spinal cord or the brain. It is characterized by pain, weakness, or numbness, most often occurring in the feet or the hands. It can have an impact on your circulation, your urinary functionality, and your digestive processes. The peripheral nervous system is responsible for sending information to and from your brain to all other parts of your body and also sends information to the central nervous system.

Neuropathy can occur as a result of an injury, an infection, problems with your metabolism, exposure to toxins, and existing medical conditions such as diabetes. Diabetes is one of the most common causes of peripheral neuropathy. Any sufferer of peripheral neuropathy might describe it as a stabbing pain, burning sensation, or tingling in the extremities. These symptoms can be improved, if the underlying cause is treated and begins to subside.

Do you have peripheral neuropathy?

All nerves in your body have different functions, so the kind of symptoms you experience will depend on which nerves are being impacted. There are three basic types of nerves, those being motor nerves, sensory nerves, and autonomic nerves. Here are some of the most common symptoms associated with peripheral neuropathy:

• weakness in the muscles
• the sensation that you're wearing gloves or socks, even when you aren't
• intolerance to heat
• excessive sweating
• digestive or bowel problems
• drops in blood pressure, followed by light-headedness
• sharp, stabbing pain in the extremities
• sensitivity to touching the area
• lack of coordination and susceptibility to falls
• paralysis, if motor nerves are the ones being affected
• pain in your feet or hands, when doing activities that should never cause pain

The nerves that are impacted could be one, two, several, or a whole group of them. Most people who have peripheral neuropathy have multiple nerves affected. A good example of a single nerve being impacted is carpal tunnel syndrome. It's a good idea to have any numbness or tingling in your hands or feet checked out by the family doctor. When the condition is diagnosed in an early stage, treatment tends to be much more successful.

Dealing with peripheral neuropathy 

Managing medical conditions that put you at greater risk of developing neuropathy is the best way to handle it. For instance, if you have diabetes, you can make lifestyle changes that will reduce any associated symptoms, and help keep your diabetes under control. The same is true for excessive alcohol consumption, and this should be controlled for a great many health reasons. You can maintain a healthy diet that includes fiber, protein, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables because these are the kinds of foods that keep nerves healthy.

Embarking on a regular program of exercise is another important factor in keeping healthy nerves and avoiding neuropathy. At least 30 minutes each day will do wonders for your overall state of wellness. Finally, avoid any of those factors which contribute to neuropathy, such as awkward positions that cramp your nerves, repetitive motions, exposure to toxic substances, smoking, and consuming excessive alcohol.

If you are suffering from neuropathy in Fort Collins, we can provide treatments to alleviate your symptoms. Contact us today!

Square One Health

Address: 257 Boardwalk Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80525
Phone: (970) 207-4463
URL: https://squareonehealth.com/