Peripheral neuropathy is a problem that afflicts the peripheral nervous system – the network of nerves that branches out from the brain and spinal cord. These nerves serve to transmit messages, impulses, and information to and from the central nervous system.

Neuropathy is a term that combines two roots meaning “nerve” and “abnormal.” The symptoms of peripheral neuropathy can vary depending on the type of nerve that is affected. There are three major types of nerves: sensory nerves, which carry sensory impulses; motor nerves, which command muscles; and autonomic nerves, which transmit information to glands and vital organs.
Peripheral neuropathy means that the nerves no longer work as they should. The manifestations include pain, numbness, and loss of muscular control. When the nerves leading to the vital organs are affected, loss of normal organ function is the result.

Diseases like diabetes, kidney failure, AIDS, dietary deficiencies, cancer,  diphtheria, leprosy, rheumatoid arthritis, and syphilis may cause the neurological condition. Substances like alcohol, toxic compounds, and chemotherapy drugs can cause peripheral neuropathy. Other causes include nerve compression due to devices like crutches and braces as well as insufficient blood flow which can result to a loss of adequate supply of oxygen. Severe exposure to extremely cold environments can also cause peripheral nerve damage leading to neuropathy.

Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy depend upon the type and extent of nerve damage. Usually, long nerves are more prone to damage or injury than the shorter ones. Any nerve damage can result to altered and/or tingling sensation, numbness, and other symptoms. Altered or reduced sensation is usually first felt in the feet, especially in the case of diabetic neuropathy, and then moves to the central regions as the condition progresses.

Damage to the motor nerve fibers leads to reduced muscular control leading to weakness, atrophy, loss of muscle mass, and reduced dexterity. Depending on which region or muscle tissue is affected, the symptoms involving motor nerve abnormality include breathing difficulty, paralysis, cramping or twitching, and loss of ability to perform regular tasks.

When the autonomic periphery is affected, certain manifestations appear including constipation, abdominal bloating, diarrhea, blurring of vision, dizziness and fainting, incontinence, erectile dysfunction (in males), and reduced ability to perspire.

Neurological examinations should reveal problems with organ function affecting motor, sensory and visceral function. Generally, a detailed medical background of the patient must be determined. In cases of diabetes and nutritional deficiencies, blood tests should be in order. These medical procedures aim to pin point the origin of nerve damage that causes symptoms of peripheral neuropathy.