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# Neuropathy

neu·rop·a·thy - noo-ROP-uh-thee

## Definition

Neuropathy refers to damage or dysfunction of one or more peripheral nerves - the vast network of nerves that extend from the brain and spinal cord to every other part of the body, carrying signals for sensation, movement, and automatic body functions. When these nerves are damaged, they can send faulty signals, causing pain where there is no painful stimulus, fail to send signals at all (causing numbness), or transmit signals incorrectly.

Peripheral neuropathy most commonly affects the feet and hands first (a pattern called "stocking-and-glove" distribution), gradually progressing toward the center of the body. Symptoms depend on which types of nerves are affected: sensory nerve damage causes numbness, tingling, burning pain, or sensitivity to touch; motor nerve damage causes muscle weakness, cramps, or difficulty with coordination; and autonomic nerve damage can affect [blood pressure](/glossary/blood-pressure), digestion, bladder function, and heart rate.

The most common cause of neuropathy worldwide is diabetes - chronically elevated blood sugar damages nerve fibers over time. Other causes include vitamin deficiencies (particularly B12), autoimmune diseases, infections, certain medications (especially some chemotherapy drugs), excessive alcohol consumption, [toxin](/glossary/toxin) exposure, and hereditary conditions.

## Also Known As

Peripheral neuropathy Nerve damage Polyneuropathy 

## Key Facts

-   • An estimated 20 million Americans suffer from peripheral neuropathy. 
-   • Diabetic neuropathy affects up to 50% of people with diabetes over their lifetime. 
-   • Vitamin B12 deficiency is one of the most common and treatable causes of neuropathy. 
-   • Neuropathy is not a single disease - it's a symptom of over 100 different underlying conditions. 
-   • Early-stage neuropathy may be reversible if the underlying cause is identified and treated promptly. 
-   • Medications like gabapentin, pregabalin, and duloxetine can help manage neuropathic pain but don't address the underlying cause. 

## How It Relates To Your Health

If you experience persistent numbness, tingling, burning pain, or weakness in your hands or feet, neuropathy may be the cause. Early diagnosis is important because identifying and treating the underlying condition can halt or slow nerve damage progression and, in some cases, allow damaged nerves to regenerate.

For people with diabetes, maintaining [blood sugar](/glossary/blood-glucose) within target ranges is the most effective way to prevent or slow diabetic neuropathy. Regular foot examinations are essential because loss of sensation in the feet can lead to unnoticed injuries that, without proper care, can develop into serious infections.

## Related Terms

[Insulin Resistance](/glossary/insulin-resistance)[Inflammation](/glossary/inflammation)[Cortisol](/glossary/cortisol)

## Related Conditions

[

### Migraine

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### Multiple Sclerosis

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Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the protective myelin sheath covering nerve fibers, disrupting communication between the brain and body. Symptoms vary widely depending on which nerves are affected and can range from mild numbness to severe disability.

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### Epilepsy

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### Parkinson's Disease

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Tremor at rest Muscle stiffness and rigidity Slow movement (bradykinesia) 

Chronic Learn More 

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## Sources

1.  [Peripheral Neuropathy](https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/peripheral-neuropathy) - National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NIH)
2.  [Peripheral neuropathy](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/peripheral-neuropathy/symptoms-causes/syc-20352061) - Mayo Clinic

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