Neuropathy: A Definition

All You Need to Know About Neuropathic Disorder

Peripheral neuropathy is a disorder of the body’s peripheral nervous system (PNS). A system of nerves that connects our brain to the rest of our body, the peripheral nervous system transmits signals from our central nervous system to our muscles, skin and other organs. Without the peripheral nervous system, we would not be able to move (motor) feel (sensory) or even breathe (autonomic). Thus, when a person has peripheral neuropathy, it means that one or more of these functions are affected.

Find Out What You Didn’t Know About Peripheral Neuropathy

Contrary to popular belief, this disorder is actually quite common. The reason why a lot of people are uneducated about it is because over the years the disease has been misdiagnosed, unnoticed or identified as symptoms of another sickness. Eight percent of the population is said to be inflicted with the disorder. Though it can occur at any age, older people are more susceptible to it. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, weakness in the arms or legs, a loss of feeling, dizziness or an impaired sense of position. Some people experience having a hard time walking or climbing stairs; others lose the ability to grasp objects, often dropping things. Many also report that they experience the sensation of wearing invisible gloves or socks on their hands and feet.

Causes for peripheral neuropathy can vary, thirty percent of which is unknown. Other causes include diabetes, tumors, heredity, infections and nutritional imbalance. Though some cases are mild, others prove to be fatal. 

Right now, some types of neuropathy are curable, but most are not. However, getting adequate medical help is crucial to keeping one’s self healthy against the disease. Educate yourself and your family about this disorder. If you or someone you know has been experiencing some of the symptoms described above, lose no time in consulting your physician. Peripheral neuropathy is much easier to cure when detected early.