Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that affects the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord. This can result in various symptoms, depending on which nerves are affected. Some common symptoms include pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness. Peripheral neuropathy can occur due to several different factors. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for peripheral neuropathy, as the condition can vary from person to person. If you have this condition, you should consult with a Bakersfield peripheral neuropathy specialist to determine the best course of action based on your situation. This article looks at some of the common causes of peripheral neuropathy you should know about.
-
Diabetes
One of the most common causes of peripheral neuropathy is diabetes. When someone has diabetes, their blood sugar levels are chronically high. This can damage the nerves over time and lead to peripheral neuropathy. Approximately 60-70% of people with diabetes will develop some form of nerve damage, called diabetic neuropathy.
-
Trauma
You may develop peripheral neuropathy if you suffer a traumatic injury, such as a car accident or fall. This is especially the case if you suffer an injury to the head or spine. These injuries often cause damage to the nerves, which can lead to peripheral neuropathy.
-
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy drugs can sometimes cause peripheral neuropathy. This is because these drugs can damage the body’s cells, including the cells that make up the nerves. Approximately 25% of people who receive chemotherapy will develop peripheral neuropathy.
-
Alcoholism
People who are alcoholics are at an increased risk of developing peripheral neuropathy. This is because alcohol can damage the nerves and lead to nerve damage. Approximately 50% of people who are alcoholics will develop peripheral neuropathy.
-
Tumors
A tumor is a mass or lump that develops in the body. If a tumor is located near the nerves, it can damage them and lead to peripheral neuropathy. Tumors that may cause peripheral neuropathy include brain tumors, spinal cord tumors, and ovarian tumors. Tumors can also cause other types of neuropathy, such as optic neuropathy.
-
Bone Marrow Disorders
Bone marrow disorders, such as multiple myeloma can sometimes lead to peripheral neuropathy. This is because the bone marrow produces cells that support the nervous system. If there is a problem with the bone marrow, it can damage the nerves and cause peripheral neuropathy. Other bone marrow disorders that can lead to neuropathy include leukemia and lymphoma.
-
Autoimmune Diseases
Autoimmune diseases are conditions in which the body’s immune system attacks its tissues. Some autoimmune diseases that can lead to peripheral neuropathy include lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjögren’s syndrome. The immune system mistakenly attacks the nerves in these diseases, leading to peripheral neuropathy.
-
Medications
Several medications can cause peripheral neuropathy. Some common medications that can lead to neuropathy include chemotherapy, anti-inflammatory, and cholesterol-lowering drugs. If you are taking any medicines and experience symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, talk to your doctor about whether the medication could be responsible.
In summary, there are many different causes of peripheral neuropathy. Some of the most common causes include diabetes, trauma, chemotherapy, alcoholism, tumors, and autoimmune diseases. If you experience any symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, it is essential to consult with a doctor to determine the cause. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for peripheral neuropathy, so the best course of action will vary depending on the cause.
