Pseudo Motor Neuropathy Symptoms & Treatments

Sudomotor neuropathy is a form of damage to the autonomic, or involuntary, nervous system. It is characterized by excessive sweat production in the chest and armpits and lack of sweating in the lower extremities. The condition is most commonly associated with complications of advancing diabetes. Treatment for sudomotor neuropathy involves proper hydration, skin and foot care, and control of the underlying diabetic condition.

Symptoms of Sudomotor Neuropathy

• According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, sudomotor neuropathy causes several changes to the skin in the lower extremities in addition to the classic abnormalities of sweat production. Signs to look for in the lower extremities include dryness, flaking and the appearance of fissures, cracks or ulcers (crater-like open sores). You may also experience thinning of the skin, hair loss, increased callus formation, and malformation or partial destruction of your nails. In some rare cases, your symptoms may be accompanied by a noticeable elevation in body temperature. Consult your doctor if these signs appear.

Sudomotor Neuropathy Treatments

• Like other forms of diabetic nerve damage, sudomotor neuropathy is not reversible. However, there are several steps you can take to limit its effects. Begin by maintaining an adequate fluid intake. Your doctor will recommend an appropriate daily goal, and you should do what you can to stick to this guideline.

  You will also need to pay close attention to the condition of your skin and feet. This is especially important since other forms of diabetes-related neuropathy may diminish or eliminate your ability to sense any pain or significant changes. Do daily visual examinations and follow these up by running your fingers along the surface of your skin. Note any changes, no matter how small they appear, and report these findings to your doctor. In addition to cracks and ulcers, look for signs of infection or bruising. Even tiny alterations in the integrity of your skin can indicate a worsening of symptoms, and there is no such thing as an insignificant development in this area.

  Proper care extends beyond daily observation. To protect your feet, wear shoes and socks both indoors and outdoors. Make sure your shoes fit properly. Be especially careful when breaking in new shoes, because their stiffness increases the chances of ulcer formation. Cut your toenails regularly, and avoid exposure to heat sources, as well as chemical astringents, iodine or hydrogen peroxide.

  To address excessive sweating in your upper torso, your doctor may prescribe a medication designed to reduce sweat output. Examples include clonidine (Catapres) and glycopyrrolate (Robinul Forte, Ribinul).

Controlling Diabetes

• Beyond addressing localized effects, control of your sudomotor neuropathy symptoms requires strict control of your underlying diabetes. Central to this goal is daily monitoring of your blood glucose levels. Your doctor and a qualified nutritionist will outline effective methods for meeting your glucose targets, and you should follow their recommendations as closely as possible. You will also need to address any additional factors that contribute to your diabetes, including alcohol abuse, smoking and hypertension. Consult your doctor and nutritionist for more information on proper diabetes control.