Peripheral Neuropathic Disease
Peripheral neuropathy is a nerve disorder caused by injury to the peripheral nerves (nerves located outside of the brain and spinal cord). These nerves are responsible for transmitting information from the brain and spinal cord to the remainder of the body. Peripheral neuropathy can affect any portion of the body, but the hands and feet are most commonly affected. Depending on which nerves are affected, multiple symptoms may result. The most prevalent symptom is a searing ache. Also present are numbness, trembling, and weakness. (1)
Peripheral neuropathy can affect any age group and any portion of the body. It is more prevalent among elderly adults, diabetics, and those with chronic kidney disease. Nonetheless, it can affect anyone at any time. Peripheral neuropathy can be caused by a variety of factors, including diabetes, toxic exposure, and autoimmune diseases. The treatment of peripheral neuropathy is contingent upon the underlying cause. In some cases, medication or surgery may be used as a form of treatment. In other instances, lifestyle modifications may be required to alleviate symptoms.
Pathology and physiology
Pathophysiology of peripheral neuropathy refers to the specific alterations in the structure and function of peripheral nerves that result in the disorder’s symptoms. Damage to the peripheral nerves results in peripheral neuropathy. The peripheral nerves control the voluntary muscles and sensations in the hands, ankles, and elsewhere in the body. (2)
The pathophysiology of peripheral neuropathy is not fully understood, but a number of factors are believed to contribute to its development. This disease is caused by injury to the myelin sheath, which serves as a protective covering for nerve fibres. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, infection, autoimmune disorders, and exposure to pollutants, damage to the nerve cells themselves, inflammation around the nerves, abnormalities in blood flow to the nerves, and alterations to the supporting structures surrounding the nerves.
In addition to nerve compression, other causes of nerve injury include tumours and metabolic disorders. Depending on which nerves are affected, the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy can include pain, paralysis, tingling, weakness, and muscle atrophy. There is no cure for peripheral neuropathy, but there are treatment options for managing its symptoms.