Neuropathy Diseases

According to Medline Plus, peripheral neuropathy--sometimes called neuropathy diseases--are characterized by damage to the peripheral nervous system. Peripheral neuropathy diseases affect nerves far from the brain and spinal chord, which means that the nerve functions in limbs, hands and feet are impacted. According to The Neuropathy Association, approximately 1/3 of neuropathic cases are the result of diabetes.

Types

• The Neuropathy Association reports that there are several types of neuropathy. These include autonomic neuropathies, which specifically impact the nerves in the autonomic nervous system. There are also neuropathic diseases related to cancers and illnesses that are caused by medications. Diabetic neuropathies are the most common. Additional forms include compressive neuropathies, gastro-intestinal and nutrition-related neuropathies, hereditary neuropathies, immune-mediated neuropathies and neuropathies caused by infectious diseases, such as Lyme disease, rheumatoid arthritis and syphilis.

Symptoms

• According to Medline Plus, the symptoms of neuropathy diseases vary based on the types of nerves affected. Diseases such as leprosy, which affects the sensory fibers, produce symptoms of burning sensations, tingling or numbness, overall nerve pain and a lack of movement coordination. Diseases that affect the motor neurons decrease muscle control, create weakness, cause dexterity loss and produce cramps. Diabetic neuropathy, which affects the autonomic nerves, primarily decrease the function of the autonomic system. This system regulates involuntary functions. Therefore changes in breathing and heart rate are common. Some diseases affect more than one nerve type.

Treatment

• Treatment for neuropathy diseases varies based on the disease, reports Medline Plus. Because neuropathies are often the result of an underlying condition, it is important to address and cure that underlying condition. If this is not possible, treatment focuses on managing the patient's quality of life and controlling the symptoms. Prescription medications are used for pain moderation.

Neuropathy and Diabetes

• Diabetes is a leading cause of neuropathy in the United States. According to Dr. Thomas of the Saint Louis University School of Medicine, the neuropathic symptoms of diabetic patients usually begin with numbness, tingling and pain in their toes. Controlling the symptoms of diabetes can treat and prevent some neuropathy cases. A pancreas transplant cannot reverse nerve damage, but it can stop the progression of neuropathy caused by diabetes. Also, management of hyperglycemia slows neuropathy.

Considerations

• The Mayo Clinic offers several recommendations for managing peripheral neuropathy. Taking care of your feet and exercising is important, the clinic states. Furthermore, quitting smoking and decreasing alcohol intake--especially for neuropathies caused by excessive alcohol consumption--can help reduce pain. Also, massages temporarily increase your circulation and consequently decrease pain. Lastly, avoid putting pressure on your joints.