Neuropathy Condition and Symptoms

Neuropathy is damage to the peripheral nervous system, which is separate from the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms vary, based on the types of nerves affected.

Types

• Motor, sensory or autonomic nerves can be damaged by neuropathy. Motor nerves control conscious movement of muscles, while sensory nerves process sensory information such as texture or pain. Damage to the autonomic nervous system affects involuntary functions---blood pressure, heart rate, digestion and bladder control.

Symptoms

• Motor nerve damage is most commonly seen in the form of muscle weakness, reports the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). Sensory nerve damage symptoms include numbness, tingling and pain, especially of extremities. Autonomic nerve damage symptoms depend on which organs or glands are involved.

Causes

• Almost one-third of neuropathies have an undetermined cause. Diabetes is a common risk factor, says neurologychannel.com. Other risk factors include alcoholism, trauma, infections and heredity.

Treatment

• Neuropathy medications include anti-seizure drugs, anti-depressants and topical anesthetics. If its cause is known, treatment involves managing the condition causing it.

Considerations

• If you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar under control and include plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains in your diet. According to the NINDS, you can prevent further nerve damage by avoiding cramped positions and repetitive movements.