Peripheral neuropathy is a condition where the peripheral nerves are damaged. This can cause numbness, weakness, and pain in the body, particularly in the feet and hands. The condition may be acute or chronic and treatment depends on the cause. Causes of peripheral neuropathy Peripheral neuropathy can be caused by several factors. In fact, it is usually a result of a combination of causes such as Diabetes: Peripheral neuropathy is the most common complication of diabetes. More than 50 percent of diabetics eventually develop the condition. Foot neuropathy is especially common, which is why diabetics are advised to regularly inspect their feet for injuries. For instance, a cut or a foot ulcer may go unnoticed if a diabetic patient is unable to feel pain on his or her feet. The injury may worsen and lead to more complications. Medication: Certain medications can cause peripheral neuropathy in general. Chemotherapy is an example and cancer patients undergoing the treatment are at risk of developing the condition. Other types of medication include those used to treat HIV, blood pressure problems, and epileptic seizures. Excessive alcohol consumption: Heavy drinking can cause peripheral neuropathy. Alcohol is toxic to nerve tissue and drinking too much can damage the nerves.

Peripheral neuropathy can cause discomfort and pain and may prevent individuals from living their life to the fullest. While treatment usually includes medication, therapy, and sometimes surgery, learning how to manage it yourself can go a long way in reducing pain and discomfort. Here are a few ways to take care of yourself if you are at risk of developing the condition or already have it. Reduce alcohol consumption Excessive alcohol consumption can damage the nerves and cause peripheral neuropathy. Reducing the amount of drinking (for non-alcoholics) and seeking treatment for alcoholism can reduce pain. If your vitamin levels are low, your doctor may ask you to take supplements. Follow the dosage and complete the course for as long as prescribed. Eat healthy A nutritious diet has many benefits and helping reduce the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy is just one. Include fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats in your meals. If you have dietary restrictions, your doctor may prescribe a diet plan. Workout Regular exercise can strengthen the muscles and joints and ease the pain. If you’re unable to perform moderate-intensity workouts, speak to your doctor about less strenuous exercises like yoga. You can start walking at least three times a week for 30 minutes too.

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that develops as a result of an injury or damage to the peripheral nervous system. Peripheral nerves carry information and sensors back to the brain and spinal cord. Any reaction you feel is the result of a proper working of the peripheral nerves. When these nerve centers are damaged or injured, the communication can get hampered and the reflexive reaction of the message may not reach the brain. They can be either acute or chronic. Peripheral neuropathy symptoms can be experienced for a few days to many months and in some cases, even years. Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy: There are three basic types of nerves. Motor nerves They control the voluntary movement of muscles. These include walking, moving, sitting, and talking. Motor nerve damage symptoms include muscle weakness and painful cramps in the muscles and joints. They also diminish your reflexes. Sensory nerves They are responsible for senses like touch, smell, sense of feel, etc. Sensory nerve damage symptoms include an aversion to senses. You might experience numbness and a diminished sense of touch. Your sensation might get reduced and sometimes you might feel light or heavy depending on the symptoms. You might feel that you are wearing tight clothing or socks and that your circulations are getting cut.