Peripheral Nerve Damage Symptoms

Peripheral neuropathy is damage to the nerves that control the motor system (muscles and bones), autonomic nervous system (bodily functions) and sensory nerves. Peripheral nerve damage may cause pain, numbness and tingling and an inability to control certain body functions. The causes of peripheral nerve damage include poisoning, infections, injuries and diabetes.

Hypotension

• Dizziness or fainting are symptoms of hypo-tension (low blood pressure) that can be caused by damage to the nerves that control the heart.

Urination

• Damage to the nerves that control the bladder may result in urinary incontinence, the inability to start urination and difficulty with completely emptying the bladder.

Erectile Dysfunction

• According to the Mayo Clinic, men with peripheral neuropathy may have problems with erectile dysfunction and ejaculation.

Sexual Dysfunction

• Women with peripheral neuropathy may have symptoms including vaginal dryness, trouble getting aroused and an inability to have an orgasm.

Gastroparesis

• Problems with food digestion, or gastroparesis, such as constipation and diarrhea, may be caused by peripheral neuropathy of the nerves that control the stomach and intestines.

Visual Problems

• An inability of the eyes to respond to changes in brightness or darkness may be caused by peripheral nerve damage in the optic nerve.

Sweating

• Peripheral nerve damage may cause problems with the body's ability to control its temperature, such as sweating to cool itself off, especially after eating.