What are Neuropathies?

Neuropathies, also known as peripheral neuropathy, refer to a group of disorders that involve damage to the peripheral nerves, which transmit signals between the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and the rest of the body. Neuropathies can affect sensory, motor, or autonomic nerves, leading to a wide range of symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, and dysfunction of organs or muscles. Neuropathies can be caused by various factors, including diabetes, infections, autoimmune diseases, trauma, toxins, genetic factors, and metabolic disorders.

Common Symptoms of Neuropathies​

Numbness and Tingling

Sensory symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in the hands, feet, or other affected areas.

Pain

Sharp, stabbing, or shooting pain in the affected nerves or surrounding areas, often worse at night.

Muscle Weakness

Weakness or loss of muscle strength, particularly in the arms, legs, or extremities.

Difficulty Walking

Problems with balance, coordination, or walking due to muscle weakness or sensory deficits.

Autonomic Dysfunction

Dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, changes in blood pressure or heart rate, sweating abnormalities, or gastrointestinal disturbances.

Loss of Reflexes

Absent or diminished reflexes, especially in the affected limbs or extremities.

Whom to Consult?​ and When to Consult?​

If you experience symptoms suggestive of neuropathy or have concerns about your neurological health, it’s essential to seek medical evaluation and appropriate management at SRM Global Hospitals, Chennai. 

Schedule an appointment with Neuro Science Today

Consult our healthcare experts immediately if you experience​​

Common FAQs About Neuropathies

Q: What causes neuropathies?

A: Neuropathies can be caused by various factors, including diabetes, infections (such as Lyme disease or HIV), autoimmune diseases (such as Guillain-Barré syndrome or lupus), trauma or injury, toxins or chemical exposure, genetic factors, metabolic disorders, or nutritional deficiencies.

Q: How are neuropathies diagnosed?

A: Diagnosis of neuropathies typically involves a medical history, physical examination, neurological assessment, imaging studies (such as MRI or CT scan), nerve conduction studies, electromyography (EMG), blood tests, and other specialized tests to evaluate nerve function and identify underlying causes.

Q: What is the treatment for neuropathies?

A: Treatment for neuropathies depends on the underlying cause, severity, and type of neuropathy. It may include medications (such as pain relievers, anticonvulsants, or antidepressants), physical therapy, occupational therapy, nerve blocks, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), or lifestyle modifications to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Q: Can neuropathies be prevented?

A: While not all neuropathies can be prevented, adopting a healthy lifestyle, managing underlying medical conditions (such as diabetes or autoimmune diseases), avoiding toxins or chemicals, maintaining proper nutrition, and practicing safety measures to prevent injuries can help reduce the risk of neuropathies in some cases.