Facts About Neuropathy Symptoms
Neuropathy occurs when there is a problem with the peripheral nerves, which are responsible for transporting signals from the central nervous system to the rest of the body. Symptoms may vary depending on what nerve is affected. Here are some common symptoms.
Body numbing or tingling may occur when there is neuropathy or pain in a localized area of the body. It occurs when nerves that carry sensation messages (touch, pain, temperature) do not perform correctly.
Localized pain is caused when there are sharp or shooting pains that occur randomly in the body (especially in the legs). It may even occur from something as simple as a light touch.
People with peripheral neuropathy may lose their balance. It occurs when tissues in the body deploy receptors called proprioceptors to respond to stimuli. Loss of balance happens when these receptors become affected by neuropathy.
Neuropathy pain may cause people to develop an abnormal gait due to the dysfunction of the motor or sensory nerves. Symptoms may include dragging feet, a stooping walk or a lopsided shuffle when walking.
Peripheral neuropathy may cause dysfunction to motor nerves, which results in muscle cramps even with the slightest exertion, such as during daily activities.
Muscle weakness may occur along with muscle cramping. It occurs when patients have a hard time performing small movements that require precision, such as buttoning a shirt or picking up an object.
Digestive disorders may occur when neuropathy affects the autonomic nerves in the body, which control involuntary actions. Symptoms may include bloating, flatulence, constipation, and heartburn.
Autonomic nerves also control blood pressure. When neuropathy occurs, it may cause the affected person to develop hypertension. Symptoms may include blurred vision, fainting, dizziness, heart palpations, and fatigue.
In some cases of neuropathy, a very specific nerve may be affected. Bell’s Palsy may occur when the nerves that control the facial muscles are affected. Symptoms may include mild muscle weakness with loss of movement in the face that varies depending on the progression of the disease.
Other symptoms of neuropathy may include eye pain, sweating, heat intolerance, loss of bladder and bowel control, double vision, difficulty concentrating, and weakness in the fingers.
Article Provided By: PainScale
