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Acquired Neuropathy Disease

Neuropathy is caused by damage to the nerves of the peripheral nervous systems. The disease is called peripheral neuropathy. It usually occurs from damage to nerves axons. Acquired neuropathy occurs when autonomic nerve fibers are affected either selectively or disproportionately. The disease can be cured, based on the individual's underlying conditions. According to Medicalnewstoday.com, acquired neuropathy affects 20 million people and half of those who suffer from diabetes.

  1. What Is Neuropathy Disease?

    • Neuropathy is a disease of the nerves. These are "biological wires" that connect the brain, the spinal cord, and the bundle of nerves that transport motor messages to the various muscles and then sensory information to the brain. There are several types of neuropathy, one of which is peripheral neuropathy, which occurs due to deterioration of the nerve function at the end of the individual's limbs. This results in the loss of sensitivity in the hands, legs and feet, which feels like "pins and needles," while others feel pain. Neuropathy can be either hereditary or acquired.

    Classification

    • Peripheral is classified as mononeuropathy, which involves one nerve, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, multiple mononeuropathy, affecting two or more nerves, and polyneuropathy, affecting the feet and legs.

    Causes

    • Acquired neuropathy can be caused by traumatic injuries, metabolic disorders, such as enzymes malfunctions, and exposure to toxins, which are poisons inside and outside the body. The most common cause is diabetes, but it can also be attributed to poor nutrition, other diseases, pressure or trauma. In some cases, it is considered idiopathic neuropathy, because it has no known cause.

    Symptoms

    • Acquired neuropathy causes pain, numbness in the hands and feet and sometimes tingling or a burning sensation. It can affect the motor nerves, which control the movements, and sensory nerves that detect coldness, heat or pain. In some individuals with autonomic neuropathy, it has reportedly affected internal organs, blood vessels, bladder or intestines.

    Treatment

    • Treatment includes, determining and treating the cause, such as a diabetic who exercises poor sugar control. Most people are never cured, even with treatment, and are forced to continue treatment of the affected limbs in order to prevent them from getting too hot or cold and preventing injury. These individuals should seek the help of a podiatrist and use pain killers and medication such as low-dose amitriptyline to provide relief. Control of the pain is based on how quickly the underlying problems can be cured or the symptoms improve. Alternative therapies such as Botox, cannabinoids and dietary supplements can also be used.

    Prevention

    • There are many steps individuals can take to prevent neuropathy, such as proper foot care, especially diabetics, smoking cessation, healthy eating and avoidance of undue pressure on the knees or elbows to prevent new nerve damage.

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