How to diagnose #Neuropathy and what type of #nerves are affected?

Peripheral Neuropathy refers to the conditions that result when nerves that carry messages to and from the brain and spinal cord from and to the rest of the body are damaged or diseased.

The peripheral nerves make up an intricate network that connects the brain and spinal cord to the muscles, skin and internal organs. Peripheral nerves come out of the spinal cord and are arranged along lines in the body called dermatomes. Typically, damage to a nerve will affect one or more dermatomes, which can be tracked to specific areas of the body. Damage to these nerves interrupts communication between the brain and other parts of the body and can impair muscle movement, prevent normal sensation in the arms and legs, and cause pain.

Types of Peripheral Neuropathy

There are several different kinds of peripheral neuropathies that stem from a variety of causes. They range from carpal tunnel syndrome (a traumatic injury common after chronic repetitive use of the hands and wrists, such as with computer use) to nerve damage linked to diabetes.

Diabetic Neuropathy

It is one of the most common forms of peripheral neuropathy, nerve damage occurs in an ascending pattern. The first nerve fibers to malfunction are the ones that travel the furthest from the brain and the spinal cord. Pain and numbness often are felt symmetrically in both feet followed by a gradual progression up both legs. Later, the fingers, hands, and arms may become affected.

 

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What is Peripheral Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a term for a series of disorders that result from damage to the body’s peripheral nervous system, which is the nervous system of the legs, arms, hands and feet.
#Peripheral #Neuropathy  is a condition that develops as a result of damage to the peripheral nervous system — the vast communications net- work that transmits information between the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord) and every other part of the body. Neuropathy means nerve disease or damage. Symptoms can range from numbness or tingling, to pricking sensations (paresthesia), or muscle weakness.

In Diabetic Neuropathy, one of the most common forms of peripheral neuropathy, nerve damage occurs in an ascending pattern. The first nerve fibers to malfunction are the ones that travel the furthest from the brain and the spinal cord. Pain and numbness often are felt symmetrically in both feet followed by a gradual progression up both legs. Later, the fingers, hands, and arms may become affected.

What type of nerves that are affected with Neuropathy?

• Sensory nerves
• Motor nerves
• Autonomic nerves

Peripheral nerves send sensory information back to the brain and spinal cord, that the feet are cold. Peripheral nerves also carry signals to the muscles to generate movement. Damage to the peripheral nervous system interferes with these vital connections. Like static on a telephone line, peripheral neuropathy distorts and sometimes interrupts messages between the brain and spinal cord and the rest of the body.

Neuropathy Signs and Symptoms

• The nerves that control sensation
• When nerve is effected it causes
• Tingling and numbness
• Increased pain or loss of ability to feel pain
• Pins and needles and hypersensitivity
• Weakness in the hands and feet
• Loss of ability to detect changes of heat and cold
• Loss of co-ordination and proprioception
• Burning, stabbing, lancing, boring or shooting pains-which may be worst at night
• Skin, hair or nail changes
• Foot and leg ulcers, infection and gangrene
• Dizziness or fainting
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Blurred vision
• Heat intolerance or decreased ability to sweat
• Hypoglycemia unawareness

How to Diagnose Neuropathy?

Taking a complete Medical History by your doctor
Symptoms
General Health
Any history of Neuropathy in the family
Any current or recent medications.
Any exposure of poisons (toxins)
Alcohol consumption
Sexual history

What to look for in a Neuropathy Exam?

• Looking at the skin thoroughly
• Testing vibration
• Tendon reflexes
• Muscle Tone and strength
• Coordination and Posture
• Checking the pulse and oxygen level

Natural Treatments like health lights, supplements, acupuncture, whole body vibration, electrical stimulation and chiropractic adjustment will help with Peripheral Neuropathy. 

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