Neuropathy

Neuropathy is a condition or set of symptoms affecting the nerves outside the central nervous system called peripheral nerves, including all nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. Neuropathy can affect either one or several nerves, usually starting in the hands and feet, but can affect other areas too.

Types of Neuropathy 

There are many types of Neuropathy, but they can be broadly classified by the types of nerves affected or their underlying cause. Below are a few of the most common cases we treat at Knight Neurology.

Peripheral:

Peripheral neuropathy is the most common type, affecting the nerves that connect the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. It often causes symptoms in the hands and feet, such as numbness, tingling, and pain. 

Autonomic:

Autonomic neuropathy affects the nerves that control involuntary bodily functions like digestion, heart rate, and blood pressure. It can cause a wide range of sympyoms, including dizziness digestive problems, and urinary incontinence. 

Proximal: 

Proximal neuropathy tends to affect the nerves in the hips, buttocks, and/or thighs, causing pain and weakness in those targeted areas. It is also known as diabetic amyotrophy. 

Focal:

Focal neuropathy involves damage to a single nerve or a group of nerves, often causing sudden weakness or pain in a specific area, like the face. An example of this would be Bell's palsy. 

Symptoms & Causes

Neuropathy, or nerve damage, can manifest in a variety of ways depending on the type and location of the affected nerves.

Some common symptoms include:

Sensory:

• Numbness and/or tingling in the hands and feet.
• Burning or shooting pain.
• Sensitivity to touch.
• Loss of balance/ coordination.

Motor:

• Muscle weakness.
• Cramps.
• Twitching.
• Difficulty with fine motor skills.

Autonomic (Involuntary):

• Dizziness/ fainting from blood pressure fluctuations.
• Digestive issues
• Urinary incontinence 
• Heat intolerance

The causes of neuropathy are diverse, the most common being:

• Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage nerves over time. 
  
• Autoimmune diseases: Conditions such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis can cause the immune system to attack the nerves.
  
  
• Infections: Shingles, Lyme disease, and HIV can lead to nerve damage. 
  
• Medications: Certain medications, the most common being chemotherapy drugs, can have neuropathy as a side effect. 
  
• Vitamin deficiencies: Lack of B vitamins, especially B12, can contribute to nerve problems.
  
• Inherited disorders: Some types of neuropathy are caused by genetic mutations.
  
• Trauma: Injuries, such as from car accidents or falls, can damage nerves.
  
• Exposure to toxins: Heavy metals and industrial chemicals can cause nerve damage. 
  

Keep in mind that this list is not exhaustive. Your providers' at Knight Neurology explore the many possible underlying causes of your condition and the contributing factors to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. 

Diagnosis & Treatment

Here at Knight Neurology we use your medical history, physical exams, and specialized tests to evaluate nerve function. These tests may include nerve conduction studies, electromyography (EMG), blood tests, and in certain cases, imaging studies or nerve biopsies.

Your treatment plan may include:

• Management of underlying conditions.

• Medications.

• Therapies.

• Lifestyle modifications.

If you're interested in scheduling a consultation, call Knight Neurology or book an appointment online today.