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Snapshot: What is Neuropathy?

Our nervous system consists of the central and the peripheral nervous system. The brain and spinal cord are components of our central nervous system (CNS), while the peripheral nervous system consists of all other nerves that travel from the CNS to supply our face and the rest of our body. Nerve damage can cause serious health problems such as neuropathy. Doctors and researchers often use the terms “neuropathy” and “peripheral neuropathy” interchangeably. The term “neuropathy” originates from two Greek words; “neuro” meaning “neuron or nerve” and “pathy” meaning “condition”. Neuropathy is a form of nerve damage that accompanies other health problems, such as diabetes, cancer or injury, however it is not clear why these conditions lead to neuropathy. When the reason for neuropathy is unknown, it is called “idiopathic” or “cryptogenic” (hidden) neuropathy. Patients with neuropathy have “misfiring” of the nerves that carry signals from our CNS to other parts of the body, called peripheral nerve cells. This “misfiring” causes pain and loss of sensation. Symptoms of neuropathy can vary substantially depending on the role of the affected peripheral nerve. Symptoms may include burning sensation, numbness, shooting pain, muscle weakness or loss of sensation or twitching. Problems with imbalance and sleep disorders can occur with the progression of these conditions. These symptoms can make simple everyday acts very challenging.

What are the different types of neuropathy?

There are different types of neuropathy, and they can be separated into motor, sensory, autonomic and combination neuropathies. Motor neuropathy is caused by damage to nerves that control our muscles and movement. Symptoms of this type include muscle weakness and paralysis, muscle atrophy and uncontrolled muscle movement. Sensory neuropathy is a result of damage to nerves responsible for sensory feelings such as touch or pain. The symptoms of this type of neuropathy include tingling, numbness, imbalance and clumsiness and pain. Autonomic nerve neuropathy is a more serious form because autonomic nerves control unconscious bodily functions such as breathing and heartbeat. Damage to these cells can lead to heart problems and issues with the respiratory system. Symptoms for this type of neuropathy include blood pressure changes, sweating too much or not enough, bowel and bladder problems, sexual dysfunction. Combination neuropathies are the most common type of neuropathies caused by the damage to motor and sensory nerves, which results in a loss of not only sensation but also motor control.

What can help patients with neuropathy?

There are different approaches to help patients with neuropathies, such as medications, physical therapy, devices and wearable equipment, such as braces, canes or footwear. To reduce the risk of developing a neuropathy we should eat a balanced diet, stay physically active, maintain a healthy weight, wear safety equipment as needed to prevent injuries, avoid alcohol in excess and avoid exposure to toxins and heavy metals. The most effective way to treat this condition is to treat the underlying cause. Unfortunately, for most patients, neuropathy becomes a chronic condition that needs lifelong management.

If you would like to learn more about neuropathy, take a look at these resources by the NIH National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke and Verywell Health.