Neuropathy is a nerve condition that can cause a range of symptoms, including pain, numbness, tingling, swelling, or muscle weakness. It’s often called peripheral neuropathy, and it occurs when the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord are damaged.
Neuropathy can be caused by a number of conditions, including:
- Diabetes
- Cancer or cancer treatment
- Physical injury
- Infection
- Toxic substances
- Kidney failure
- Malnutrition
- Smoking
- High blood pressure or atherosclerosis
Symptoms of neuropathy can include:
- Decreased sensation of touch and vibration
- Pins and needles
- Hypersensitivity
- Increased pain or inability to feel pain
- Inability to detect changes in heat and cold
- Difficulty with coordination and balance
- Burning, stabbing, lancing, or shooting pains
Treatments are available to help control or minimize symptoms, improve balance and mobility, and reduce pain.
